McLaren Urges FIA Action Against Verstappen After Norris Clash at Austrian Grand Prix

The team principal of McLaren, Andrea Stella, has called for the FIA to take decisive action against the Formula One world champion, Max Verstappen, following a contentious clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris at the Austrian Grand Prix.

In a fierce battle at the Red Bull Ring, Norris and Verstappen fought for the lead for 12 intense laps, culminating in a collision on lap 64 that led to both drivers sustaining punctures. Norris was ultimately forced to retire, while Verstappen finished fifth after being penalized by the stewards.

Stella expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of enforcement of rules during the incident, suggesting that Verstappen should have at least received a warning to prevent such actions in the future. He highlighted the need for stricter adherence to existing regulations and boundaries in Formula One.

Norris accused Verstappen of driving dangerously, with Stella drawing parallels to the contentious battles between Verstappen and Hamilton in 2021. Stella criticized the FIA for not penalizing Verstappen in prior incidents, stating that such decisions may have emboldened the Dutch driver.

Despite the penalty in Austria, Verstappen’s championship lead over Norris extended to 81 points, with Stella emphasizing the importance of addressing driver conduct to avoid a repeat of the controversies from the previous season.

Red Bull team principal, Helmut Marko, defended Verstappen’s aggressive driving style, labeling the clash with Norris as an inevitable outcome of intense competition. He anticipated further rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton at the upcoming British Grand Prix at Silverstone.