Max Verstappen keeps pole after accusing Lando Norris of ‘creating problem’
Max Verstappen has claimed Lando Norris was at fault for the incident which almost led to a huge crash between the pair during qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix
Both drivers were preparing for quick laps in Q3 at Suzuka, but at very different speeds as they approached the final chicane. Norris started to push before the ultra-fast 130R left-hander, but as he rounded the turn he was confronted by Verstappen’s crawling Red Bull.
The world champion was weaving in an attempt to warm up his tyres, with his back end sliding out as Norris approached, forcing the McLaren driver to take to the grass to avoid a huge smash.
READ MORE: Lando Norris expects Max Verstappen to be stripped of pole after huge crash just avoided
As a result, both drivers were called to face the stewards after qualifying, with Verstappen in danger of being hit with a grid penalty and losing pole position. However, the world champion escaped with just a reprimand, meaning he will start at the front ahead of Ferrari duo Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.
Norris certainly felt the Dutchman was at fault, saying: “What he did is something you cannot do. People always overtake before the last corner. As much as everyone always agrees to it [not to], everyone always does it. I wouldn’t have swerved at him.”
Asked if he would expect a penalty if he had done the same, Norris added: “Oh yeah, for sure.”
Who was to blame for the incident? Tell us in the comments section below.
Despite appearing to wave at his friend in apology on the cool-down lap, Verstappen suggested Norris was at fault in his post-qualifying press conference, pointing to a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ which dictates drivers shouldn’t overtake during warm-up laps in qualifying.
“We were all warming up to try and create a gap for everyone,” said Verstappen. “Somehow, he still wanted to get me into the chicane. I was at the point of accelerating but I was on very cold tyres so I had a little moment and that’s why he had to drive around me.
“If you are just a bit more respectful, then no-one is trying to pass into that last chicane. By trying to pass me, you create that kind of problem.”
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