Andrea Stella reveals McLaren thought Max Verstappen was under investigation not Lando Norris for US GP track limits
Andrea Stella voiced concerns about Lando Norris's five-second penalty, which cost him a third-place finish at the US Grand Prix.
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Lando Norris, Andrea Stella and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
Controversy erupted at the United States Grand Prix when Max Verstappen and Lando Norris clashed in the title fight. Norris was penalized for overtaking Verstappen off-track for third place, prompting an FIA investigation.
The FIA ultimately ruled that the Briton exceeded track limits to pass the Dutchman, leading to the penalty and sparking heated debate. Norris finished third in Austin, but a five-second penalty pushed him behind Verstappen, costing him a podium spot.
Lando Norris had a strong race, running longer on his first set of tires, which helped him catch up to Max Verstappen. On Lap 52, he tried to overtake Verstappen on the outside at Turn 12 but went off the track.
Even though he got ahead, the FIA ruled that he gained an unfair advantage by going off-track, leading to the penalty and dropping him to fourth. Team principal Andrea Stella expressed his concerns on the matter.
When I saw that there was an under investigation, I was pretty sure that was because Max pushed Lando off the track. And in fact we told immediately Oscar, make sure you close five seconds on Max because there could be a position at stake.
Andrea Stella told Motorsportweek.com
Andrea Stella slams FIA for failing to discuss the incident with the drivers post-race
Stewards often discuss incidents with drivers post-race, especially if penalties or contentious decisions are involved. They may explain their rulings, review evidence, and listen to the drivers’ perspectives.
However, in the case of Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, they straightaway gave a penalty to the latter deeming he gained an advantage. In Andrea Stella’s opinion, the Dutchman should’ve been penalized as he pushed the 24-year-old off track.
I am surprised that the stewards didn’t even feel the need to discuss with the drivers after the race. It is an uncertain situation.
Andrea Stella emphasized
The race in Austin was a tough one for McLaren, who came in with high hopes for a strong performance. Lando Norris couldn’t replicate his recent dominance, particularly after his impressive run in Singapore. However, it was not meant to be.
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Gaurang Kadam
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