Why Lando Norris Thinks F1's Track Limit Penalties Are 'Stupid' and What Needs to Change
Lando Norris has called upon the FIA to re-evaluate how track limit violations are enforced, especially when it's during an overtaking maneuver. During the Austrian Grand Prix, Norris was entangled in a fierce battle for first place with Max Verstappen when his chances of winning were obliterated seven laps before the end due to a collision. However, what truly sealed his fate was a five-second time penalty for exceeding track limits repeatedly—a decision Norris finds unjustifiable.
The Incident That Sparked Controversy
Norris had violated the track limits three times when his failed overtaking attempt on Lap 59 caused him to go off track. Despite losing time and ceding the lead back to Verstappen, this mishap counted as his fourth offense, leading to a penalty. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella criticized the decision post-race, warning that such penalties could make drivers wary of attempting overtakes.
Norris' Frustration
Reflecting on the incident, Norris said,