Before diving into the FIA sanction details, let’s clarify some key terms.
What is the apex of a corner? How does the FIA interpret the term ‘overtaking’? And what constitutes a proper overtaking maneuver?
According to the official Formula 1 website, the apex refers to “the innermost point of the driving line taken through a corner.” However, the definition of overtaking is less clear.
The FIA often uses terms like ‘overtaking car’ or ‘overtaking driver’ in its regulations, highlighting the ambiguous nature of the rules.
As Thomas Maher pointed out in another article, the FIA regarded Verstappen as the ‘defending car’ during his encounter with Norris.
Since he was ahead at the apex, he was entitled to maintain his position, while Norris, as the ‘attacking driver,’ attempted to overtake on the outside.
This ambiguity is evident in George Russell’s five-second penalty against Valtteri Bottas for a similar incident earlier in the race.
In that case, Russell was clearly the attacking driver, having been behind Bottas at the apex.
The FIA’s guidelines state that for an overtaken car to be required to give space, the overtaking car must have a significant portion alongside and execute the maneuver safely while remaining within track limits.
When determining what constitutes a ‘significant portion’ for outside overtakes, stewards consider whether the overtaking car is ahead at the corner’s apex and if the car being overtaken can navigate the corner within track limits.
The controversy arises in determining whether Verstappen was truly the defending driver and Norris the attacker.
The regulations do not clearly address overtaking on straights, leaving it subjective.
Reviewing the footage and telemetry suggests Norris was ahead of Verstappen before Turn 12, making him the defending driver.
He overtook Verstappen just before the turn, meaning Verstappen should have been viewed as the attacker. The telemetry indicates Verstappen braked later to regain position at the apex.
Verstappen’s move to stay ahead involved aggressive tactics, as he delayed his braking significantly compared to Norris.
Ultimately, while the FIA’s penalty seems justified based on their interpretation, I believe it was flawed since Norris had effectively overtaken Verstappen before reaching the braking zone.
The rules indicate that the overtaken driver must be able to stay within track limits, but Norris was forced off track due to Verstappen’s maneuver.
Both drivers violated the guidelines, complicating the penalty’s justification.
This situation isn’t new for Verstappen, who has consistently shown a strong understanding of the rules to leverage them in his favor.
Despite the controversies, he continues to finish ahead of Norris, enhancing his chances for the championship as the season progresses.
