The Contentious Pit Lane Clash Between Norris and Verstappen

In the thrilling Japanese Grand Prix, Lando Norris and Max Verstappen found themselves locked in a nail-biting battle. On lap 20 of 53, as Oscar Piastri changed his tires, Norris saw an opportunity to gain ground on Verstappen. When both drivers returned to the track, a heated debate ensued over who was at fault for the close call.

The Fast Lane Priority Rule

The reason no investigation followed this incident lies in the FIA’s International Sporting Code. Verstappen was driving in the fast lane, while Norris was coming from the inner or working lane. According to Appendix L, Chapter IV, Article 5.b, drivers in the fast lane have priority, and those joining from the working lane must yield and merge behind them.

The same rule emphasizes that drivers should not overtake other cars in the fast lane unless there are exceptional circumstances. In this case, Norris was not hindering Verstappen or putting mechanics at risk since the incident occurred at the end of the pit lane.

Was There an Unsafe Release by Norris?

Although accusations flew across radio channels, it appears that Norris did not commit an unsafe release in this instance. Penalties for such actions typically involve a driver moving into the fast lane from the working lane and hindering another driver already in the fast lane. In this case, no such hindrance occurred.

Appendix L, Chapter IV, Article 5.f, clarifies when an unsafe release does take place. It states that cars may not be turned away from a garage or pit stop position in a manner that may endanger or unnecessarily hinder pit lane personnel or another driver. Equipment or tires may not be left in the pit lane in a manner that will endanger or unnecessarily hinder another car.

Mowing the Grass: Norris and Verstappen’s Post-Race Banter

Despite the discord during the race, both drivers managed to joke about the incident afterward. Norris admitted that he knew not to expect much space from Verstappen, while the Red Bull driver joked about the grass being poorly maintained on the right-hand side.

In a press conference, Verstappen quipped, “I think the grass was not really well cut on the right-hand side. I think Lando saw that as well and he made sure it was nicely cut.” Norris responded, “The guys did a very good pit stop under pressure. It was our one opportunity to try and get a bit closer. I wasn’t even trying to race Max, I was just trying to cut the grass like he said! Didn’t even know he was there, actually. So no, nothing. He had the position and he had the right to do what he did, so fair play.

Red Bull’s Slower Pit Stop: The Root Cause

The slower pit stop that led to the incident between the drivers was due to a personnel issue at Red Bull. Team boss Christian Horner explained later that two of their number one mechanics had to return to the UK because their father was unwell. This left reserve crew members to handle the pit stop, resulting in a slightly slower time than ideal.