McLaren boss says Norris punishment was ‘inappropriate’

AUSTIN, Texas: McLaren’s Andrea Stella criticized Formula 1 stewards on Sunday for what he called an “inappropriate” US Grand Prix penalty that seriously dented Lando Norris’ title hopes.

Norris had an exciting duel with title rival Max Verstappen for third place and overtook the Red Bull four laps before the end, with both cars going wide.

The Briton, who had come off worse on the first lap following an incident with Verstappen at the first corner after starting from pole position, did not relinquish the place and was subsequently penalized, dropping him to fourth.

“My view is that the way the stewards interfered with a beautiful piece of motorsport was inappropriate because both cars were off track, giving both cars an advantage,” Stella told Sky Sports Television.

The Italian said there was no appeal against the decision and that championship leaders McLaren had no choice but to put the decision behind them.

“We double checked that both cars had gone off the track. So for us there was no doubt that the maneuver was correct,” he added when asked why Norris had not been told to give back the place.

Red Bull director Christian Horner obviously disagreed. He called it a ‘slam-dunk’ decision and praised the stewards for acting quickly and ensuring the podium reflected the true result.

“For us it was obvious that the pass was made out of bounds, so he should have given the place back,” he told reporters.

“He chose not to do that and that’s why a penalty followed. For us it was a black and white scenario.”

Norris said the stewards’ decisions were inconsistent and hasty, with Verstappen defending too much, making a mistake but still taking advantage.

“I don’t think you can appeal these kinds of penalties, which is again a foolish thing to do because they are just guessing and I don’t think this is the way stewarding should be done,” he told reporters.

“I’m not complaining to them. I think it’s more the fact that they don’t see everything and understand everything, just like we do when we’re in the car,” the 24-year-old added. now 57 points behind Verstappen.