The Mexico City Grand Prix delivered a mix of controversy and concern for reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen. While the Red Bull driver collected two time penalties for incidents with title rival Lando Norris, it was his team’s lack of pace that seemed to trouble him more.
Penalties Overshadowed by Performance Woes
Verstappen, who started alongside race winner Carlos Sainz, ultimately finished a disappointing sixth after serving his penalties. The sanctions, which cost him 20 seconds in total, were handed out for forcing McLaren’s Norris off the track at Turns 4 and 7.
Despite the setback, Verstappen seemed more preoccupied with Red Bull’s struggles. “The biggest problem that I have is that today was a bad day in terms of race pace,” he admitted. “That was quite clear again on the mediums and on the hard tyres.”
A Lack of Grip and Fight
The Dutchman expanded on his concerns, revealing, “To get back to sixth is alright but then I couldn’t even fight the Mercedes cars in front, I just had no grip. Just sliding a lot, couldn’t brake.” This lack of performance left Verstappen unable to challenge for a higher position.
“I mean, the engine was off for 20 seconds, so I had enough time [for a drink].”
– Max Verstappen jokingly referring to his lengthy pit stop due to penalties
Championship Lead Cut as Norris Closes In
The result saw Verstappen’s championship lead over Norris reduced to 47 points with four rounds remaining. The McLaren driver has been consistently strong, putting pressure on the defending champion. Their on-track battles have been intense, with penalties playing a role in recent races.
In Austin just a week prior, it was Norris who received a penalty after a clash with Verstappen. The Briton found himself ahead despite being pushed wide, resulting in a sanction for not giving the place back. “Last week that was alright, this week 20 second penalty. It’s what it is,” Verstappen commented, hinting at inconsistencies.
Horner: Penalties “Excessive” and “Very Harsh”
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner shared his driver’s frustration, calling the Mexico penalties “excessive” and “very harsh.” He suggested they were an overreaction to the events in Austin and the subsequent backlash.
Horner warned of potential consequences, stating, “I think we’re in danger of flipping the overtaking laws upside down, where drivers will just try to get their nose ahead at the apex and then claim that they have to be given room on the exit [to the corner].”
“It’s something that just needs to be tidied up so that everybody knows what is acceptable between now and the end of the season. Otherwise we’re going to end up in a mess at the upcoming races.”
– Christian Horner on the need for clarification of overtaking rules
Looking Ahead: Clarity and Consistency
As the championship battle enters its decisive phase, both Verstappen and Horner emphasized the need for clarity and consistency in the application of overtaking rules. With tensions running high and every point crucial, any further controversies could have a major impact on the title fight.
For now, Verstappen remains focused on the task at hand. “I just keep racing,” he affirmed, determined to maintain his lead and secure a third consecutive world championship. However, to do so, he will need Red Bull to provide him with a car capable of fighting at the front – something that was sorely lacking in Mexico.
As the Formula 1 circus moves on to the next round, all eyes will be on Verstappen, Norris, and the ongoing battle between Red Bull and McLaren. With the stakes higher than ever, every decision – both on and off the track – could prove pivotal in deciding the fate of the 2024 championship.
