Brundle not only analyzed the details of the captivating battle between the current standout Formula 1 drivers – Verstappen and Norris – but also speculated: “I’m not making excuses for Max, but I wonder if the absurd conflict between his father Jos and team boss Christian Horner finally manifested itself on the track for him.”
While competing for the lead, the two “friends” engaged in an unrestricted fight for first place on the podium. Norris was unstoppable and Verstappen was unwavering. Inevitably, they collided, resulting in the World Champion receiving a 10-second penalty for his questionable actions from the FIA F1 Race Stewards, along with penalty points on his license. However, he managed to recover and finish in fifth place, extending his lead in the F1 World Drivers’ Championship standings for 2024.
Norris, on the other hand, had a DNF (Did Not Finish) and left the track with a damaged McLaren, which at the time of the incident was the fastest car, in part due to the newer medium Pirelli tires compared to Verstappen.
The collision brought back memories of Verstappen’s intense clashes with Lewis Hamilton in previous seasons. It was believed that Verstappen had matured and reserved his aggressive behavior for the seven-time F1 World Champion. However, it seems that no one is safe from his aggressive tactics.
Reflecting on the incident in his summary of the 11th round at the Red Bull Ring for Sky F1, Brundle provided a detailed account of the duel: “Up front, Verstappen was struggling for grip and had a slow six-second pit stop due to a stuck left rear wheel. This reignited the race with Norris hot on his heels and determined to overtake him.”
“Norris relentlessly closed the gap within the one-second DRS zone and, just like he did the previous day in the Sprint race, attempted a bold move on the inside of turn three. Verstappen, more prepared this time, defended his position.”
“Clearly frustrated inside the cockpit, especially after the slow pit stop, Max became increasingly aggressive in his defense, pushing the limits of acceptable driving in close combat with late moves in braking zones, but managing to get away with it.”
“Lando tried another dive, but this time he arrived too fast, locking up the front tires and going off track. This resulted in his fourth track limits violation, and he received a five-second penalty, which unfortunately he never served. Max seemed to be unaware of this imminent penalty for his friend and rival.”
“Shortly after, on lap 64, Norris attempted to overtake Verstappen on the outside of turn three. Verstappen swerved to the left, causing contact between the two cars. Did he know Norris was there? He confirmed after the race that he did, as he was very aware of everything happening around him. The collision ended Norris’ race and forced Verstappen to limp home with a punctured tire for three-quarters of a lap.”
Following the collision, there may have been additional actions that Brundle noticed: “What concerned me was that, after the collision, Verstappen clearly tried to obstruct and collide with Norris as they both fought to continue.”
“Verstappen received a 10-second penalty for the incident at turn three, but his speed on fresh tires made it inconsequential, as he fought back to fifth place, further extending his championship lead to the frustration of many.”
“In my comments and in these articles, I praised Max’s talent and still stand by it. He is one of the most exceptional drivers I have witnessed in my 40 years of experience. I also mentioned that he has become more composed, mature, and strategic with three championships in his resume. However, it seems that this race brought back Max 1.0, with his standard driving tactics and denials resurfacing.
“Furthermore, hearing the Red Bull team solely blaming Norris on the radio after the race was hard to listen to, as it damages their credibility. It was evident that Norris would receive a five-second penalty for exceeding track limits, making the entire situation unnecessary for Red Bull.
“It is also worth mentioning that Lando’s racing style was quite reckless. If he wants to consistently defeat Max and win a championship, he will need to demonstrate more finesse, patience, and cunning,” commented Brundle, summarizing the chaotic 15 minutes in Spielberg on Sunday.
During the weekend in Spielberg, Verstappen’s father was present in the Red Bull pit garage. There were accusations that Horner prevented Jos from participating in a parade on the track, but the team boss denied these claims. Max considered the dispute unnecessary and believed it could have been avoided.
© 2024
Shocking events occurred last night during the football match between rival teams, Flamengo and Vasco, at Maracanã stadium. The match, which promised to be intense, ended up being interrupted due to a widespread brawl among the players.
During the first half, the atmosphere between the teams was already tense, with several fouls and arguments. However, it was in the second half that the situation got out of control. After a hard tackle from a Flamengo player on a Vasco athlete, a confusion broke out on the field.
The players started exchanging punches and kicks, while the referees tried to separate the fight. The situation got even worse when fans invaded the field, increasing the confusion. The police had to intervene to contain the violence.
Several players and fans were injured during the turmoil. Ambulances were called to provide assistance to the injured, who were taken to nearby hospitals.
The Rio de Janeiro State Football Federation (FERJ) has already announced that it will open an investigation to determine the responsibilities for the incident. Disciplinary measures will be taken against those involved in the fight.
This regrettable incident tarnishes the reputation of Brazilian football and reinforces the need for greater security in stadiums. We hope that the punishment will be severe and that cases like this will not be repeated in the future.
Sport is a national passion, and it is sad to see that it can be stained by acts of violence like this. It is important for authorities and clubs to take measures to ensure the safety of players and fans, so that everyone can enjoy the sport in a peaceful and healthy way.
Flamengo and Vasco are two of the biggest clubs in Brazil, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. We hope that they can overcome this episode and continue to represent Brazilian football in the best possible way.
In the coming days, it is expected that more information about the incident will be released. Stay tuned for updates on this sad event.
