The Formula 1 world has once again been thrown into commotion after remarkable statements by the team boss ofMcLaren, dieMax Verstappenaccuses of being indirectly responsible for the tensions that led to the argument — and according to some sources even a physical confrontation — betweenLando NorrisinOscar Piastriafter the United States Grand Prix in Austin.
According to the McLaren CEO, tension within the team started shortly after qualifying, when both drivers were involved in an internal battle for position. What initially seemed like a sporting rivalry escalated into a conflict behind the scenes after the race, with emotions running high.
In an interview withSky Sports F1the McLaren boss stated that Verstappen’s behavior on track had “added fuel to the fire”.
“Max drove at the limit, but also in a way that was clearly provocative towards our drivers,” he said. “The pressure he created in the opening rounds put Lando and Oscar in a situation where they started fighting against 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 opening 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 increased further in the McLaren garage. Multiple witnesses reported that a loud altercation took place between the two drivers, after which team members had to intervene to calm the situation.
The McLaren boss called the incident “embarrassing for the team” and admitted that the consequences are serious both sporting and image-wise.
“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 some of the behavior on track, even if it comes from a champion like Verstappen, has aggravated this situation.”
The reactions on social media did not wait. Many fans criticized Verstappen for his allegedly provocative driving, while others accused McLaren management of blaming their internal problems on a rival.
Verstappen himself has not yet responded publicly to the allegations, but sources close to Red Bull have said that the team calls “the accusations absurd and unfounded”.
In the meantime, McLaren is trying to restore calm to the team, with a view to the next Grand Prix in Mexico. Whether the incident will have long-lasting consequences for the collaboration between Norris and Piastri remains unclear for the time being — but one thing is certain: Austin’s drama will continue to reverberate in the paddock for a long time to come
