Oct 28, V7N- The penalties imposed on Max Verstappen at the Mexico City Grand Prix have sparked debate over racing rules and could have long-term implications for Formula One’s approach to racing standards. Verstappen received two 10-second penalties—one for pushing McLaren’s Lando Norris off the track while defending his position and another for going off-track and gaining an advantage. The decision represented a shift in how similar incidents were judged, contrasting with a prior incident in Texas where Verstappen was not penalized.
 
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff believes this new approach will influence future racing conduct. He argued that, under the revised interpretation, drivers must leave sufficient space for competitors outside the corner if the cars are side by side, signaling that aggressive defense moves that push rivals off the track may no longer be tolerated. Wolff explained that braking late and forcing an opponent off the circuit, while also going off-track oneself, would now be restricted. “I think it will change the way everybody races in the future,” he stated, predicting this adjustment will reshape racing norms.
 
However, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner disagreed with the new interpretation. He maintained that drivers holding the inside line traditionally control the corner, arguing that this principle allows racers to hold their line aggressively while defending. Horner further suggested that an overly stringent approach could hinder the spontaneity and risk-taking intrinsic to racing. He called for discussions between drivers and stewards to establish a balanced solution, warning against over-regulation that could lead to uncompetitive behaviors.
 
This incident has not only created division between teams but may also lead the FIA to clarify racing guidelines, with potential impacts on how drivers approach cornering and defensive maneuvers in the future.
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