Max Verstappen Defends Tactics in US Grand Prix Amid McLaren Criticism

Max Verstappen has defended his defensive maneuvers during the US Grand Prix, accusing McLaren of “complaining a lot lately” after a controversial on-track incident with Lando Norris. The Dutchman extended his lead in the championship standings to 57 points, finishing ahead of Norris, who was demoted to fourth after receiving a five-second penalty for overtaking Verstappen off the track.

The penalty sparked frustration from Norris and McLaren. Norris claimed the stewards had rushed their decision, while McLaren team principal Andrea Stella argued that Verstappen’s defensive tactics left Norris with no room to complete the move.

“The defending car [Verstappen] goes straight at the apex,” said Stella. “Max is off the track as much as Lando is, giving Lando no chance to complete the maneuver. How many times has Max used this way to defend? Both go off track and both are gaining an advantage. If there is an advantage gained, it was at least neutral.”

Adding to the controversy, McLaren raised concerns about Red Bull’s in-car device that allegedly adjusts the car’s ride height, suggesting it may have been used in violation of rules prohibiting modifications between qualifying and the race. Red Bull, however, denied any wrongdoing.

Verstappen responded to McLaren’s criticism by emphasizing that the penalty was consistent with the rules. “They complain a lot lately,” he said. “But it is very clear, and it is in the rules: if you are outside the white line, you cannot pass. I’ve been penalized for that in the past, too.”

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner backed Verstappen’s defense, stating: “It was crystal clear the pass was made off the track, so Lando should have given the place back. It was a slam dunk.”