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Lando Norris delivered an uncompromising retort toward the criticisms of his fellow driver Oscar Piastri following their contact during the Singapore GP, asserting how any racer who wouldn't try a comparable passing move should not be in F1.

Race Incident Triggers Team Tensions

The race on the Marina Bay street circuit was won by Russell, however was characterized by the clash during the first corners, where Lando Norris went after Piastri and bumped with his teammate following he had nudged the Red Bull driven by Verstappen ahead.

Any driver in Formula One would have done a similar thing that I did, therefore if you criticize me for only going on the inside of a big gap then you do not deserve to compete in Formula One,” he declared. “There was completely fine with my move.”

Championship Battle Intensifies

Norris and Piastri are engaged in a direct battle for the world title, with McLaren claiming the constructors' title at the Singapore GP. Both drivers ended up in third and fourth places, as Norris reduced the gap on Piastri down to twenty-two points and six rounds left.

The Australian driver was incensed at the time, decrying that it was unjust that the team would not intervene to have Norris return the place because he believed he had forced him off the line. Nonetheless, the stewards did not intervene.

Driver's Explanation

“I misjudged a little bit how close I was near Verstappen, but that happens in racing plus I would have ended up ahead of Piastri anyway,” stated Norris. “I was on the inside and the last thing I wanted I want to do is to make contact with my teammate. Given my title position I'm in, I cannot afford to do that as opposed to him. Race officials deemed it fine and the team agreed.”

Teammate's Reaction

Piastri stated he would hold off judgment until McLaren held a debriefing. “I need to look at the video and more closely and come to my own opinion after that,” he stated. This was the first lap, emotions are high and drivers are encouraged to express our perspectives regarding the clash. I shared my view and we'll talk about it going forward.”

McLaren Boss's Perspective

The McLaren team principal Andrea Stella also stated McLaren would evaluate their strategy for handling both drivers. We must place everything into context. It’s the comments from a driver during an F1 race, there’s the heat of competition. The information that is available is merely his perspective. As usual we'll hold a good conversation, learn from it and improve.”