🔗 Share this article

Lando Norris issued an uncompromising reply to the criticisms of his fellow driver Oscar Piastri following their incident at the Singapore GP, asserting that any competitor that would avoid an identical passing move should not be in Formula One.

On-Track Clash Sparks Internal Conflict

The race on the Marina Bay street circuit was claimed by George Russell, however was marked due to the incident in the opening corners, when Norris attacked Piastri then made contact with his teammate following he had clipped the car of Max Verstappen in front.

Any driver in F1 would have done exactly the same thing as I did, therefore if you fault me for only taking the inside line of an opening then you do not deserve to compete in F1,” he declared. “There was nothing wrong with my actions.”

Championship Battle Heats Up

The two McLaren drivers are in a head-to-head contest to win the drivers’ world championship, with the team claiming the constructors' title in Singapore. Both drivers finished in third and fourth places, with Norris reduced the gap to his title rival down to twenty-two points and six races remaining.

The Australian driver was furious during the race, stating it as unfair that the team would not intervene to make Norris return the place since he argued he had barged him off the line. Nonetheless, the stewards issued no penalty.

Norris's Defense

I underestimated somewhat the proximity I was to Verstappen, however that's part of racing plus I would have come out in front of Piastri regardless,” said Lando. “I was on the inside so the last thing I wanted I want to do was to collide with my teammate. With the [championship] position I am in, I can't risk making contact compared to him. The FIA deemed it okay and McLaren did so too.”

Teammate's Reaction

Oscar Piastri said he would hold off judgment till the team held a meeting. “I need to look more at the replays and carefully and reach my conclusion after that,” he said. This was lap one, tensions are high so drivers are encouraged to voice our perspectives regarding the clash. I did that and it will be discussed going forward.”

Team Principal's Viewpoint

McLaren's boss Stella also stated McLaren would evaluate their approach in dealing with both drivers. “We have to put the situation into context. It’s the comments from a driver in a Formula One car, there’s the heat of the race. The data we have is merely his point of view. As always we will have a good conversation, move forward and improve.”