Expert Analysis Validates Stewards’ Decision Against Lando Norris After Controversial U.S. GP Incident

Specialist opinion supports stewards and poses a setback for Lando Norris

Anthony Davidson provides in-depth analysis of critical incident at the F1 United States Grand Prix

According to expert analysis, the "consistent" officials made the correct call in issuing a penalty to Lando Norris at the United States Grand Prix in Formula 1.

In Texas, Norris fell from third place to fourth after receiving a five-second time penalty for passing Max Verstappen off the track at Turn 12 with just four laps left in the race.

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McLaren expressed their frustration with the stewards' decision; however, a detailed review did not favor Norris.

Anthony Davidson from Sky Sports reviewed the slow-motion highlights and clarified the reasons behind the stewards' decision being accurate.

Davidson initially examined a prior confrontation between Norris and Verstappen, commenting, "This has been occurring throughout the weekend, especially at Turn 12."

During Lap 51, Norris made an earlier move to challenge Verstappen. Verstappen defended by taking the inside line, which is a strategy to disrupt the attacking car's path by pushing them away from the optimal racing line.

"There isn't much he can do in this situation. His car isn't positioned significantly alongside. His options are limited to either changing lanes to the outside or attempting to make a move on the inside of Turn 13. However, Max had already secured that position."

As he makes an error near Turn 13, he veers off the racing line. This mistake provides Lando with a chance to drive on an unobstructed track ahead.

"He nearly has an overly successful run in several respects. As a result, he's compelled to take the outside route through Turn 14 into 15, which isn’t exactly optimal. Being slightly further back from the vehicle ahead allows you to slip inside at Turn 15, adding an element of surprise."

"Max showcased exceptional defensive driving skills. His performance was a perfect demonstration of how to defend effectively, maintaining his form over numerous laps."

'Officials have maintained consistency'

Davidson evaluated the contentious event: “During Lap 52, Max initiated a maneuver earlier than he did in the prior lap.

Lando initially considers moving to the inside but changes his mind. He decides once more to take the outside route. However, unlike his prior attempt, he is now leading at this point.

At this point, Norris aims to maintain proximity to the ideal path on the track. However, he is unable to align with the racing line due to Max's presence on the inside, which Norris is fully aware of.

"The challenging question arises: was there a deliberate push off the track or not?"

"The key question is whether the person overtaking is acting aggressively. Are you ahead of the vehicle you're competing with?"

"[Max was positioned] even before the corner had fully begun. According to the regulations, the overtaking driver must have a substantial portion of their vehicle ahead of the competitor's car, particularly at the apex of the turn. It's evident that [Norris] does not meet this requirement."

"When he reaches the peak of the turn, he is present. However, at the critical moment of the bend, he is absent."

"The vehicle in the defensive stance is in front and has the ability to control the placement of your car."

Attempting to overtake someone and assuming they will allow you space on the outside is rather audacious. While it might occur on occasion, such an expectation is unlikely when dealing with Verstappen. Norris is well aware of this fact.

"Did you get pushed off the track? It's something you could claim. However, you were not in the lead."

Norris and Verstappen were forced off the circuit as they fiercely competed for the last position on the podium.

Davidson stated that Verstappen would receive a caution for leaving the track. Throughout the race, we observed various drivers receiving warnings. Verstappen would be cautioned for veering off the track and gaining an advantage as a result.

"On the other hand, Lando is passing another vehicle while not on the designated track. Do you understand the contrast? I believe that's what the officials observed. Their decisions have been consistent throughout this weekend."

Davidson eventually urged the Circuit of the Americas to make changes to Turn 12 in order to avoid any further accidents.

He expressed his last complaint, stating that they shouldn't be straying from the track at all. He urged the Austin circuit to implement changes by adding gravel, which would prevent further discussions on the matter.

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