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The McLaren driver presented a firm response to the criticisms of his teammate Piastri after their clash during the Singapore GP, stating how any driver that would not attempt an identical overtake does not deserve to race in Formula One.

On-Track Clash Sparks Team Tensions

The race on the Marina Bay circuit was claimed by George Russell, however was marked by the clash in the first corners, when Norris attacked Oscar Piastri then collided with Piastri after Norris had touched the Red Bull of Max Verstappen in front.

Any driver in F1 would have done a similar thing that I did, therefore if you blame me for just taking the inside line of a big gap then you do not deserve to be in F1,” he said. It was acceptable with what I did.”

Championship Battle Intensifies

The two McLaren drivers are in a direct contest for the drivers’ world championship, with McLaren winning the constructors' title in Singapore. Both drivers finished third and fourth, with Norris closed the points gap on Piastri to twenty-two points and six rounds left.

The Australian driver was furious at the time, decrying that it was unjust that the team would not intervene to have Norris give back the position since he felt he had forced him out of the way. However, race officials issued no penalty.

Driver's Explanation

I underestimated a little bit how close I was to Verstappen, however that happens in racing plus I would have finished in front of Piastri regardless,” stated Lando. “I was on the inside so what I least wanted I intended to do was to collide with my teammate. With the [championship] position I am in, I cannot afford making contact compared to Piastri. Race officials thought it was fine and McLaren felt the same.”

Piastri's Response

Piastri commented he would hold off judgment till McLaren held a debriefing. “I need to look at the footage again and carefully and form my conclusion then,” he stated. This was lap one, emotions are high so drivers are encouraged to voice our views regarding the clash. I did that and it will be discussed moving forward.”

Team Principal's Perspective

The McLaren team principal Andrea Stella also stated McLaren would review their method to managing both drivers. “We have to put the situation in perspective. These are the remarks from a driver in a Formula One car, there's the intensity of the race. The data that is available is merely his opinion. As usual we will have a productive talk, move forward and emerge stronger.”