MEXICO CITY — Max Verstappen was given a 20-second penalty after two different incidents with title rival Lando Norris at the Mexico City GP.
Norris was forced off the circuit while trying to pass Verstappen for at Turn 4 on the 11th lap, but appeared to have been ahead at the apex.
Norris stayed ahead once he rejoined the circuit but was then forced off the circuit again as Verstappen went off track himself to reclaim second position at Turn 8.
“This guy is dangerous,” Norris told McLaren immediately afterwards. “I just had to avoid a crash. It’s the same as last time.”
Verstappen’s aggressive moves on Norris at the U.S. Grand Prix had been a major talking point coming into the race weekend.
The stewards investigated both incidents separately and handed two 10-second penalties to the championship leaders.
It could be a hugely significant moment in the title race, with Verstappen currently 57 points ahead of Norris, but likely to lose a chunk of positions as the race unfolds.
“And how about him then, Turn 4? That’s fine then? That’s silly man.” Verstappen said when told about the second penalty.
The Dutchman went on to serve the penalty at his first pitstop.
Verstappen’s incident with Norris helped Ferrari drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc into a comfortable one-two lead.
