Norris Rejects Piastri's Grievances About Singapore GP Overtaking Move
Lando Norris presented a firm reply toward the criticisms from his fellow driver Piastri after their contact at the Singapore GP, stating how any driver who would not attempt an identical overtake ought not be in Formula One.
Race Incident Sparks Internal Conflict
The Grand Prix at the Marina Bay circuit was won by Russell, but was defined due to the incident during the opening corners, when Lando Norris challenged Oscar Piastri then made contact with his teammate following Norris had nudged the Red Bull driven by Verstappen in front.
Any driver in Formula One would have done a similar move that I did, so if you fault me for simply going on the inside of a big gap then you do not deserve to be in Formula One,” he said. “There was completely fine with what I did.”
Title Fight Heats Up
Norris and Piastri are engaged in a direct battle to win the championship, with McLaren claiming the constructors' title at the Singapore GP. Both drivers ended up in third and fourth places, as Lando closed the points gap on Piastri down to twenty-two points with six races remaining.
Piastri was furious during the race, decrying that it was unjust for the team would not intervene to make Norris return the place since he felt he had barged him out of the way. Nonetheless, race officials issued no penalty.
Norris's Defense
I underestimated somewhat how close I was to Verstappen, however that is racing and I would have come out in front of Piastri anyway,” said Lando. “I was on the inside and the last thing I wanted I intended to do is to make contact with my teammate. Given my title position I'm in, I cannot afford such a move compared to Piastri. The FIA deemed it okay and the team did so too.”
Teammate's Reaction
Oscar Piastri said he wouldn't judge yet till the team conducted a meeting. I have to examine at the footage again and in more detail and come to my conclusion after that,” he said. “It is the first lap, emotions are high so drivers are encouraged to express our views regarding the clash. I expressed mine and we will discuss it in the future.”
McLaren Boss's Viewpoint
McLaren's boss Andrea Stella also stated McLaren would take under consideration their strategy for handling both drivers. We must place the situation into context. It’s the comments of a driver during an F1 race, there’s the heat of the moment. The information that is available is just his point of view. As usual we will have a good conversation, learn from it and improve.”
