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Lando Norris issued a resolute reply to the complaints of his fellow driver Piastri following their incident during the Singapore GP, declaring that any competitor that would not attempt an identical passing move should not compete in Formula One.

Race Incident Sparks Team Tensions

The Grand Prix on the Marina Bay circuit was claimed for Mercedes Russell, however was defined by the contact in the first corners, where Norris challenged Piastri then bumped with his teammate after he had touched the Red Bull driven by Max Verstappen in front.

“Anyone on the grid would have done a similar thing that I did, therefore if you criticize me for just going on the inside of a big gap then you do not deserve to compete in Formula One,” Norris stated. It was acceptable with what I did.”

Championship Battle Intensifies

Norris and Piastri are in a close fight for the championship, with the team claiming the constructors' title at the Singapore GP. Both drivers finished in third and fourth places, as Norris closed the points gap on his title rival to 22 points with six races remaining.

The Australian driver was angry in the moment, stating it as unfair for the team did not step in to make Norris return the place since he argued he had barged him off the line. However, the stewards did not intervene.

Norris's Defense

I underestimated somewhat the proximity I was to Verstappen, however that is racing and I would have come out ahead of Piastri anyway,” stated Lando. I took the inside line and the last thing I intended to do was to touch with my teammate. Considering my standing I am in, I cannot afford such a move as opposed to Piastri. Race officials deemed it acceptable and McLaren agreed.”

Piastri's Response

Piastri commented he wouldn't judge yet until the team conducted a meeting. “I need to look at the footage again and carefully and come to my conclusion then,” he said. “It is lap one, tensions are high and drivers are encouraged to voice our views regarding the clash. I expressed mine and we will discuss it in the future.”

McLaren Boss's Viewpoint

The McLaren team principal Andrea Stella also maintained McLaren would take under consideration their approach to managing both drivers. We must place the situation into context. It’s the comments from a driver in a Formula One car, there’s the heat of the moment. The information that is available is just his point of view. As usual we will have a good conversation, move forward and improve.”