Lando Norris Cleared of Erratic Driving Charges After Intense Battle with Leclerc in US GP Sprint

Lando Norris exonerated of 'unpredictable driving' in clash with Charles Leclerc

After an inquiry, Lando Norris has been cleared of charges related to unpredictable driving during his sprint race encounter with Charles Leclerc.

Lando Norris has been exonerated from allegations of unpredictable driving while defending against Charles Leclerc during the last lap of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix sprint race.

The McLaren racer faced intense competition from the two Ferrari drivers during the 19th and final lap of Saturday's sprint competition. A mistake at the initial bend allowed Carlos Sainz to overtake and secure the second position.

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Norris successfully held off Leclerc, the driver of the second Ferrari, to secure third place. However, tensions flared during a chaotic battle on the final lap when the Monégasque driver nearly collided with the back of the McLaren.

Leclerc communicated over the team radio to express his dissatisfaction, stating that Norris was shifting positions while braking.

The stewards concluded that there was no unpredictable driving and decided not to pursue any additional measures.

The stewards noted that there seemed to be no major shifts in direction while braking, and the maneuver at Turn 15 was a lawful defensive action by the driver of Car 4.

As Car 4 entered Turn 1, it locked its brakes, causing it to veer off the ideal racing line and lose a place. The Stewards have concluded that the driver's actions were not erratic and have decided not to impose any penalties.

In an interview with Sky Sports following the race, Leclerc mentioned that he believed the maneuver was "pushing the boundaries".

"He admitted that he was surprised by the action. Perhaps, caught up in the intensity of the situation, he briefly thought the other person shifted position while braking. He mentioned needing to review the footage to be certain," he stated.

"He appeared to be pushing the boundaries with how he navigated the line, but ultimately, it's all part of racing. He was determined to maintain his position."

"I made an attempt. It was a narrow escape. We almost collided, but ultimately, there was no crash, and he ended up ahead."

When questioned regarding the FIA investigation, Norris responded, "Are you referring to the situation where you have to steer and apply the brakes throughout the entire turn?"

"You apply the brakes while turning, so it logically follows."

Norris lost two points to his championship competitor Max Verstappen, as the Red Bull racer secured a commanding win, increasing his lead in the championship standings to 54 points.

The qualification round for the United States Grand Prix, scheduled for Sunday, starts at 11 p.m. British Summer Time.

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