“Formula One stewards set a new precedent by penalizing Max Verstappen at Sunday’s Mexico City Grand Prix, a decision that will impact how drivers approach racing, according to Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff.
Red Bull’s three-time world champion received two 10-second penalties—one for pushing his McLaren rival, Lando Norris, off the track while defending and another for gaining an advantage after going off-track.
The decision contrasts with the Texas race a week prior, where stewards had sided with Verstappen and penalized Norris, who was forced wide while attempting an outside pass. This time, however, they ruled the champion, again defending from the inside, was at fault.”
“The British driver attempted an overtake at Turn 4 but was forced wide by the Red Bull, cutting across the grass, and both he and Verstappen went off track again at Turn 8, allowing Charles Leclerc to overtake them both.
Verstappen was initially given a 10-second penalty for forcing Norris off at Turn 4, and a few laps later, a second 10-second penalty was issued for leaving the track and gaining an advantage at Turn 8, bringing his total penalty to 20 seconds, which he served at his pit stop.”
“After the penalties pushed him down the order, Verstappen launched a recovery drive, ultimately finishing in sixth place. Meanwhile, Norris claimed second, narrowing Verstappen’s championship lead to 47 points.
When asked about the penalties after the race, Verstappen said they weren’t his main concern, explaining: ‘At the end of the day, whether you agree with it or not doesn’t matter because the penalties are given.'”
“Asked if the lack of pace was unexpected, the 27-year-old responded: ‘I mean, I knew it was going to be tough. It never felt great, so I expected it would be very difficult to keep them behind.’
As for whether he’ll change his approach after receiving penalties for his moves on Norris in Mexico, Verstappen joked: ‘Maybe I’ll grab a drink during the pit stop! The engine was off for 20 seconds, so I had plenty of time.'”