Lando Norris has called Max Verstappen’s driving in Formula 1’s 2024 Austrian Grand Prix “reckless” and “desperate” after the collision between the pair cost them both a victory shot.
Norris and Verstappen made contact as the final stages of the race at the Red Bull Ring kicked off after long-time leader Verstappen had lost almost all of his previous advantage in a slow pitstop.
After Norris had gone off at Turn 3 in an attack at the inside of the track’s tight, sharply uphill right-hander, where he felt Verstappen moving right in the braking zone contributed to his lock-up and slide off track, the Red Bull driver moving left meant they collided as Norris that time came alongside on the outside line.
Verstappen picked up a left-rear puncture and fell to fifth, with the stewards blaming him for causing the collision and dishing out a 10-second time addition penalty, while Norris retired in the pits as a result of damage ensuing from his right-rear puncture.
Speaking to reporters after the race, Norris said of the incident: “There’s rules for what you’re not allowed to do and you’re allowed to do.
“He was doing things you’re not allowed to do and not getting penalised. I expect a tough battle against Max. I know what to expect. I expect aggression and pushing the limits and that kind of thing.
“All three times he’s doing stuff which can easily cause an incident. And in a way just a bit reckless – he seemed like a little bit desperate from his side.
“Doesn’t need to be, he’s got plenty of wins. But a bit desperate to do what he could to not let me pass and I know it’s going to be aggressive.
“So like I’m in a way not surprised, but I just expected a tough, fair, respectful on the edge bit of racing and I don’t feel like that’s what I got him into.”
When asked to reflect on his driving against Verstappen – on Sunday in Austria and potentially in the future – Norris said: “I don’t think I need to change anything I’m doing.
“I mean, I was on the edge of the track, I didn’t know what else I’m going to do,” he added.
“He’s always been a bit like that. I respect Max a lot and what he can do and what he goes out and does every time he’s on track, but there’s times when I think he goes maybe a little bit too far.
“And I feel like today is a little bit of that. It’s one incident and at the same time, I know these things happen. [But] I’m disappointed. He ruined my race, destroyed my car. These are the best bits on the car…
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