Jenson Button Defends Verstappen’s Penalty Amidst Norris Clash, Sparks Debate Ahead of British Grand Prix

Jenson Button is not in favor of the calls for a more severe punishment for Max Verstappen

"Is a tougher penalty warranted? It may spark debate, but in my opinion, it's not necessary"

Jenson Button supports the decision made by the FIA officials, believing that the penalty given to Max Verstappen for his incident with Lando Norris was appropriate and did not warrant a more severe consequence.

Norris's race at the Austrian Grand Prix ended abruptly last weekend due to a collision with Verstappen from Red Bull.

Verstappen received a 10-second sanction, which Christian Horner described as "severe."

Their camaraderie and Verstappen's relentless approach behind the wheel are being closely examined in the lead-up to this weekend's Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Former Formula 1 champion Button shared with Sky Sports, "The competition between Max and Lando was a thrill to witness – it's a topic that will spark conversations in upcoming races and for years ahead, especially with these two vying for a world championship."

"Discussions are rife regarding Max's maneuvers in the braking zone. Is a heftier penalty warranted for his actions?"

It could be debatable, but in my opinion, he shouldn't have.

"When he applied the brakes, he drifted slightly towards the left. It's a common occurrence. When you glance to the right, you can unintentionally veer a little to the left."

"He probably shifted to the left due to Lando's presence, which seems to be the problem."

Lando had the option to veer towards the left side as well. There was plenty of track left to navigate. This maneuver could have prevented the collision.

A remarkably similar incident occurred last year in Austria at the very same turn. Carlos Sainz was on the inside lane, with Verstappen positioned on the outside.

Carlos shifted to his left, mirroring Max's actions. Max pursued, jogging along the curb, without any collision occurring.

"Racing is challenging. Mistakes happen, and we discuss them post-race. However, it's positive that we're having these conversations, as these competitors will continue to battle it out for many years ahead."

"This positions us for the British Grand Prix, where these two will be competing for the victory."

McLaren's leader, Andrea Stella, responded to the incident in Austria by arguing that the officials set a negative example by not imposing a stricter penalty on Verstappen for his previous clashes with Lewis Hamilton.

Nonetheless, Button is of the opinion that Stella's forceful statements are simply an attempt to gain a competitive edge on the circuit.

"Button mentioned that Max has previously displayed excessive aggressiveness, particularly towards Lewis."

"At present, I don't perceive it to be that way with Lando. However, should things escalate, it certainly would be."

"In the past, it was uncommon for drivers to use the radio to complain, 'he forced me off the track!'"

"They engage in this behavior as it's a way to get the attention of the stewards, with the expectation that it will prompt action, given their history of responding to such matters."

"Andrea is aware that it will provoke a response and might alter the outcome."

Button has shown his support for Norris to win this Sunday at Silverstone, a triumph that would greatly delight his local supporters.

At his home Grand Prix, it's George Russell of Mercedes, hailing from Britain, who comes in fresh off a victory in Austria last weekend.

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