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Lando Norris presented a firm reply toward the objections from his teammate Oscar Piastri after their clash during the Singapore GP, declaring that any competitor that would not attempt an identical overtake does not deserve to be in F1.

Race Incident Triggers Internal Conflict

The Grand Prix at the Marina Bay street circuit was won for Mercedes Russell, however was characterized by the clash during the opening corners, when Norris went after Oscar Piastri then collided with his teammate following he had touched the Red Bull of Max Verstappen ahead.

“Anyone in Formula One would have attempted a similar thing that I did, so if you blame me for simply going on the inside of an opening then you do not deserve to race in Formula One,” he said. It was nothing wrong with my actions.”

Championship Battle Heats Up

Norris and Piastri are engaged in a direct battle for the championship, with the team having secured the constructors’ championship in Singapore. The pair finished in third and fourth places, with Norris reduced the points gap to Piastri down to 22 points and six meetings remaining.

The Australian driver was furious in the moment, decrying it as unfair for the team did not step in to make Norris return the place since he felt he had forced Piastri out of the way. However, race officials issued no penalty.

Norris's Defense

I underestimated somewhat how close I was to Verstappen, but that's part of racing and I would have come out ahead of Piastri anyway,” said Norris. “I was on the inside and the last thing I want to do is to make contact with Oscar. Considering my standing I'm in, I can't risk such a move as opposed to him. Race officials thought it was acceptable and the team felt the same.”

Teammate's Reaction

Oscar Piastri said he would hold off judgment till McLaren held a review. I have to examine at the video and in more detail and reach my own opinion after that,” he said. This was lap one, emotions are high so we're urged to share our views on what happened. I expressed mine and it will be discussed in the future.”

Team Principal's Viewpoint

The McLaren team principal Andrea Stella also stated the team would evaluate their method in dealing with both drivers. We must place the situation in perspective. It’s the comments of a driver in a Formula One car, there's the intensity of the moment. The data we have is just his point of view. As usual we'll hold a productive talk, learn from it and emerge stronger.”