Norris Rebuffs Piastri's Criticisms About Singapore Grand Prix Passing Attempt
The McLaren driver delivered a resolute reply toward the criticisms from his fellow driver Oscar Piastri after their contact during the Singapore GP, declaring that any competitor who would avoid an identical overtake should not race in Formula One.
Race Incident Triggers Internal Conflict
The race at the Marina Bay street circuit was claimed for Mercedes George Russell, but was characterized due to the incident in the opening corners, where Norris challenged Piastri and made contact with his teammate following he had nudged the car of Max Verstappen ahead.
“Anyone in F1 would have done a similar move that I did, so if you blame me for only taking the inside line of a big gap you ought not race in F1,” he declared. “There was nothing wrong with my move.”
Title Fight Intensifies
The two McLaren drivers are in a close battle to win the world title, with the team winning the constructors' title in Singapore. The pair ended up in third and fourth places, as Lando reduced the gap on Piastri to twenty-two points and six meetings left.
The Australian driver was angry in the moment, stating that it was unjust that the team did not step in to make Norris give back the position since he believed he had forced him off the line. Nonetheless, race officials took no action.
Driver's Explanation
I underestimated a little bit the proximity I was to Verstappen, however that's part of racing and I would have finished in front of Oscar anyway,” stated Norris. “I was on the inside so the last thing I wanted I want to do is to make contact with my teammate. Given my title position I am in, I can't risk to do that as opposed to Piastri. Race officials thought it was fine and McLaren felt the same.”
Teammate's Reaction
Oscar Piastri said he would reserve judgment till the team conducted a debriefing. I have to examine more at the replays and more closely and reach my own opinion then,” he said. This was lap one, tensions are high so drivers are encouraged to voice our perspectives about the incident. I did that and it will be discussed moving forward.”
McLaren Boss's Perspective
The McLaren team principal Stella also maintained the team would take under consideration their method to managing both drivers. “We have to put everything in perspective. It’s the comments from a driver during an F1 race, there’s the heat of the race. The details we have is just his opinion. As usual we will have a constructive discussion, build from there and come up stronger.”
