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Max Verstappen Expresses Frustration After Turbulent Mexican Grand Prix
Max Verstappen’s demeanor reflected his dissatisfaction following a chaotic Mexican Grand Prix, where he received a total of twenty seconds in time penalties for what were deemed ‘illegal’ maneuvers. “I drive the way I think I should,” he stated candidly.
Unfolding Drama in the First Thirty Minutes
The atmosphere at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez was electric, marked by crashes, daring overtaking attempts, and an intense battle between two championship contenders. Expectations were high, and the action delivered. Just like the previous week in Austin, where Lando Norris faced controversy due to a penalty for an improper maneuver against Verstappen, the weekend in Mexico City was steeped in drama.
However, the spotlight turned towards the reigning world champion, as the race officials handed down penalties for two separate incidents involving Norris, resulting in a ten-second penalty for each. Verstappen expressed his discontent, remarking, “To be honestly fair, twenty seconds is excessive.” He further noted that the standard penalty for such infractions is usually five seconds. “Let’s make it twenty next year then,” he quipped sarcastically. Yet, he added that he would not dwell on the matter, stating, “I’m not going to cry about it or give my opinion. It doesn’t matter; I have no opinion. In the end, everyone speaks for themselves. Are the rules better? Perhaps yes, perhaps no. I drive the way I believe is correct. Last week, it worked; this week, it didn’t. That’s fine; life goes on.”
Concerns Beyond Penalties
Verstappen acknowledged that his worries extended beyond the two penalties. “We are too slow. The race pace on hard and medium tires is my biggest concern. Being off the pace forces me into a defensive position repeatedly,” he admitted, revealing the acute challenges he faced throughout the race.
He continued, “Finishing in sixth place isn’t terrible in itself, but I couldn’t compete with the Mercedes cars ahead. I wasn’t in a position to attack or defend effectively. Last week in Austin, we seemed promising; here, it felt much tougher. Very strange. The entire weekend was frustrating due to engine issues on Friday—it was less than ideal.”
Future Prospects and Engine Changes
Red Bull’s advisor, Helmut Marko, hinted that Verstappen might require an engine change, which could lead to a five-place grid penalty on a circuit known for its unpredictable weather and overtaking opportunities. “A showdown with Norris could be on the horizon,” he added. Even after the Mexican GP, Verstappen maintains a 47-point lead in the world championship standings. “I hope we are more competitive in Brazil,” Verstappen concluded, echoing the sentiment of many fans and analysts alike.
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