The world of Formula 1 has once again been shocked after the notable statements of the team boss ofMcLaren, dieMax Verstappenaccuses of being indirectly responsible for the tensions that led to the discussion – and according to some sources even to the physical confrontation – betweenLando NorrisinOscar Piastriafter the United States Grand Prix in Austin.
According to the McLaren CEO, tension within the team began shortly after qualifying, when both drivers became involved in an internal battle for position. What initially seemed like a sporting rivalry turned into a behind-the-scenes conflict after the race, with emotions running high.
In an interview withSky Sports F1The McLaren boss claimed that Verstappen’s behavior on track had “added more fuel to the fire”.
“Max drove to the limit, but also in a clearly provocative manner towards our drivers,” he said. “The pressure he created in the early rounds put Lando and Oscar in a situation where they started fighting each other instead of working together. That should never have happened.”
Although Verstappen himself was not directly involved in the confrontation, his aggressive driving style during the initial phase of the race is said to have caused a chain reaction. Piastri was forced to block Norris at Turn 11 to maintain position, leading to contact and a series of heated words over the team radio.
After the race, tensions are said to have risen further in the McLaren garage. Several witnesses reported that a strong altercation occurred between the two drivers, after which team members had to intervene to calm the situation.
The McLaren boss described the incident as “shameful for the team” and admitted that the consequences are serious both on a sporting and image level.
“We have worked hard to create a team culture based on respect and collaboration,” he added. “What happened in Austin not only hurts our results, but also our image. And, honestly, I think that some of the behavior on the track, even if it comes from a champion like Verstappen, has aggravated this situation.”
The reactions on social networks were immediate. Many fans criticized Verstappen for his allegedly provocative driving, while others accused McLaren management of blaming its internal problems on a rival.
Verstappen himself has not yet responded publicly to the accusations, but sources close to Red Bull have said that the team calls “the accusations absurd and unfounded.”
Meanwhile, McLaren is trying to restore calm to the team, ahead of the next Mexican Grand Prix. It is currently unclear whether the incident will have lasting consequences for the collaboration between Norris and Piastri, but one thing is certain: the Austin drama will continue to resonate in the paddock for a long time to come.
