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Lando Norris delivered a resolute reply toward the complaints of his fellow driver Oscar Piastri after their contact during the Singapore Grand Prix, stating that any racer who wouldn't try a comparable overtake should not be in Formula One.

On-Track Clash Sparks Team Tensions

The race at the Marina Bay circuit was won by Russell, however was defined due to the incident in the opening corners, where Norris went after Oscar Piastri then collided with his teammate after he had clipped the car driven by Max Verstappen in front.

“Anyone in Formula One would have done exactly the same move that I did, therefore if you fault me for only taking the inside line of a big gap you ought not compete in F1,” Norris stated. “There was nothing wrong with what I did.”

Championship Battle Intensifies

The two McLaren drivers are engaged in a close contest to win the drivers’ world championship, with the team claiming the constructors' title at the Singapore GP. Both drivers ended up in third and fourth places, as Lando reduced the gap on his title rival down to 22 points with six rounds left.

Piastri was furious during the race, claiming it as unfair for the team did not step in to have Norris give back the position because he believed he had forced him out of the way. However, the stewards took no action.

Driver's Explanation

“I misjudged somewhat how close I was near Max, but that is racing and I would have come out in front of Oscar regardless,” said Norris. “I was on the inside and the last thing I wanted I intended to do is to make contact with my teammate. Considering my standing I'm in, I can't risk making contact compared to him. Race officials thought it was acceptable and the team felt the same.”

Piastri's Response

Piastri said he wouldn't judge yet until the team conducted a meeting. I have to examine at the footage again and in more detail and reach my conclusion then,” he said. “It is the first lap, tensions are high so drivers are encouraged to voice our perspectives about the incident. I expressed mine and it will be discussed in the future.”

Team Principal's Viewpoint

The McLaren team principal Stella also emphasized McLaren would evaluate their method to managing both drivers. We must place the situation in perspective. These are the remarks of a driver during an F1 race, there’s the heat of the race. The information we have is only his point of view. As usual we'll hold a productive talk, learn from it and improve.”