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The McLaren driver issued a resolute response to the criticisms of his teammate Piastri following their incident during the Singapore Grand Prix, declaring that any driver who would not attempt an identical overtake does not deserve to be in Formula One.

Race Incident Triggers Internal Conflict

The Grand Prix on the Marina Bay street circuit was won by Russell, however was defined by the clash during the opening corners, where Lando Norris challenged Piastri then made contact with his teammate following Norris had nudged the Red Bull driven by Verstappen in front.

Any driver in Formula One would have done exactly the same thing as I did, so if you blame me for just going on the inside of a big gap you ought not be in Formula One,” he declared. It was completely fine with my actions.”

Title Fight Intensifies

The two McLaren drivers are engaged in a close contest for the world title, with McLaren claiming the constructors’ championship in Singapore. The pair finished third and fourth, with Norris reduced the points gap to Piastri down to twenty-two points and six races remaining.

The Australian driver was angry during the race, claiming it as unfair for the team did not step in to make Norris give back the position because he believed he had forced him off the line. However, race officials did not intervene.

Driver's Explanation

I underestimated a little bit the proximity I was to Verstappen, but that happens in racing plus I would have come out ahead of Piastri anyway,” stated Norris. “I was on the inside so what I least wanted I want to do was to collide with Oscar. Given my title position I'm in, I can't risk making contact compared to Piastri. The FIA considered it fine and McLaren agreed.”

Piastri's Response

Oscar Piastri said he would reserve judgment till McLaren held a review. I have to examine at the video and carefully and reach my conclusion after that,” he said. This was lap one, tensions are high and we're urged to voice our opinions about the incident. I expressed mine and it will be discussed going forward.”

McLaren Boss's Viewpoint

The McLaren team principal Andrea Stella also emphasized McLaren would take under consideration their method in dealing with both drivers. We must place everything in perspective. These are the remarks of a driver in a Formula One car, there’s the heat of the race. The information that is available is just his perspective. As usual we will have a good conversation, learn from it and emerge stronger.”