Lewis Hamilton Criticizes Controversial Max Verstappen Penalty in Mexico City GP Calling It ‘Kind of Nuts’ Says Ferrari Driver
During the recent Mexico City Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton openly criticized a penalty he received, calling it “kind of nuts.” He was the only driver penalized for cutting a corner while battling Max Verstappen, despite the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Penalty Controversy at the Mexico City GP
Hamilton faced a 10-second penalty for “leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage.” This incident occurred early in the race as the two drivers jostled for position. They raced closely through Turns 1 and 2. However, Verstappen cut Turn 3, momentarily taking third place. In an effort to overtake Verstappen, Hamilton locked up and cut the corner, emerging ahead of the Red Bull driver.
Stewards’ Decision
The stewards investigated Hamilton for two infractions regarding Turn 4. Initially, they looked into whether he followed race directives that included avoiding a run-off zone. Although he avoided a penalty for this, the stewards concluded that Hamilton should have yielded his position back to Verstappen after gaining an advantage. They stated:
- “Car 44 (HAM) locked brakes, left the track at Turn 4, and used the grass area while rejoining.”
- “By leaving the track and cutting the corner, the driver gained a lasting advantage and failed to give back the position thereafter.”
Reactions from Other Drivers
George Russell, Hamilton’s teammate, expressed confusion over why Verstappen did not receive a penalty for also cutting corners. Verstappen started fifth but made significant progress at the start, entering Turn 1 alongside several drivers, including Hamilton. Russell remarked:
- “I don’t understand how three drivers can cut the first corner and just continue in the position they entered.”
- “It’s like allowing you to risk everything, and you just have a get-out-of-jail-free card if you get it wrong.”
He added frustration regarding the contact between Hamilton and Verstappen, emphasizing the inconsistency in penalties for similar incidents. Russell noted that penalties for corner cutting have been an ongoing issue at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, where similar controversies have arisen in past races.
Looking Ahead
The Formula 1 season continues with the Sao Paulo Grand Prix set for November 7-9. This event will feature a Sprint weekend, and fans are eager to see how these penalties and incidents will influence future races. As the competition intensifies, the discussions around the fairness of penalties remain at the forefront of the drivers’ and fans’ minds.
