Verstappen Aims to Prevent Fresh Discussions on Time Penalties: “I Would Have Laid Down a Gravel Pit”

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In the lead-up to the Mexican Grand Prix, Max Verstappen continues to face scrutiny regarding his recent battle with championship rival Lando Norris. Following an intense drivers’ briefing with FIA representatives, the reigning champion firmly maintains that he made no mistakes during the Austin race. He believes that implementing stricter regulations is unnecessary, suggesting instead, “Just place a gravel trap next to the track,” as a simple solution.

The Debate on Racing Regulations

After qualifying for the Mexican Grand Prix, Max Verstappen addressed the Dutch press, reflecting on the much-discussed drivers’ briefing that took place Friday evening. What was his take on the extensive discussion about the incident with Norris? “I’ve always had my own opinions on the matter,” Verstappen stated. He reiterated that he did nothing wrong during the race in Austin, although he acknowledges that there’s always room for improvement in the regulations. “It’s never perfect,” he explained. “Of course, you should always look for ways to enhance the rules.”

The Importance of Gravel Traps

Verstappen finds it challenging to eliminate such incidents purely through stricter rules. He shares the view expressed by several other drivers in recent days. “Start with the basics; on these kinds of tracks, it’s very easy to overtake off the racing line,” Verstappen elaborated. “If there were gravel traps next to the tarmac, you wouldn’t even find yourself in these situations. You would never brake too late on the outside because you risk going off. The same applies to the inside, allowing for a more composed entry.”

Acknowledging FIA Concerns

“On circuits with substantial run-off areas, the FIA needs to recognize that this creates issues,” Verstappen noted. Nonetheless, several drivers have pointed fingers at him recently as a key instigator. Both George Russell and Lewis Hamilton have argued that the Red Bull driver should have received a time penalty for his aggressive defensive maneuvers. “I won’t change my approach,” Verstappen declared. “Even with gravel traps in place, my racing style won’t alter,” he concluded firmly.

A Vision for the Future of Racing

As the Mexican Grand Prix approaches, the discussion surrounding track regulation and driver behavior intensifies. The interplay of rules and the physical characteristics of the racetracks—like the presence of gravel traps—can significantly impact how drivers approach their races. Verstappen’s insistence on maintaining his racing style reflects a broader debate about where the line should be drawn concerning aggressive driving and technology. For fans, these discussions promise to add yet another layer of intrigue to the competitions moving forward.

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