Max Verstappen’s clash with Lando Norris shows desperation from the F1 champion

Max Verstappen might've cracked under pressure while battling Lando Norris for the race lead at the Austrian GP.

Max Verstappen’s clash with Lando Norris shows desperation from the F1 champion

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris (Via: Imago)

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris found themselves fighting for the lead at the Austrian GP. However, things took a drastic turn as the two collided at Turn 3. This virtually ended Norris’ race as he was forced to retire while Verstappen managed to bring a few points after a pitstop. It seems that the Dutch driver might’ve been desperate to win.

The reigning world champion was in a comfortable lead since the start of the Grand Prix. Despite best efforts from Norris, the Briton was nowhere close to Verstappen. However, a slow pitstop eliminated Max Verstappen‘s lead with Lando Norris coming less than two seconds behind the Red Bull.

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Max Verstappen was in no mood to let Norris have it easy. Ultimately, the two collided and ruined any chances of a victory. Lando Norris claimed that Verstappen was reckless and desperate in this battle. This raises the question, did Max Verstappen’s clash with Lando Norris show desperation from the F1 champion?

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Max Verstappen was not willing to give up race lead at any cost

Verstappen and Norris battled one another for a handful of laps before the incident. The reigning world champion showcased his best defense against the McLaren. Although, Lando Norris claimed that the Dutchman might’ve moved while braking, it was clear that he too was cracking under pressure. As the McLaren driver violated track limits and received a time penalty.

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris
Max Verstappen and Lando Norris (via IMAGO)

Red Bull had not informed Verstappen about Norris being under investigation for track limits. As such, the Dutch driver had no choice but to fend off the McLaren till the end of the race. However, as evident from the crash video, Max Verstappen might’ve been too aggressive in his defense which led to the incident.

Unsurprisingly, the stewards decided that it was Verstappen’s fault. The reigning world champion was handed a 10-second time penalty and two penalty points to his Super License. Although, Max Verstappen made it clear that he’d watch the footage before making conclusions, while Norris blamed it on the Dutch driver.

Certainly, Max Verstappen is feeling the heat from Lando Norris in recent races. The reigning world champion lost out on a race victory or at least a podium at Red Bull’s home race. However, it is clear that Verstappen will bounce back stronger than ever at the next round of the season in Silverstone.

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