Two former Formula 1 drivers believe that Lando Norris needs to increase his level of aggression if he wants to claim the 2024 championship.
Amid ongoing discussions about pro-Red Bull bias, inconsistent stewards' decisions, and Max Verstappen's racing style, McLaren initially chose not to protest Norris' controversial penalty from his on-track encounter with Verstappen in Austin.
The penalty, which dropped Norris back after their wheel-to-wheel battle, has been criticized by several insiders in the Formula 1 paddock.
"The penalty was inexplicable," said former F1 driver Jean Alesi to Corriere della Sera. "Max avoids turning at the moment at which he is overtaken. It is he who takes the McLaren off the track. Where did the Englishman take advantage? It is unknown."
Alesi added that the advantage appeared to be in Verstappen's favor due to his "extreme defense, which was rewarded."
Amid this sort of analysis, McLaren has now decided to request the FIA to review Norris' penalty ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix, as the penalty widened Norris' points gap to Verstappen by 57 points with just five races left. The review is set for Friday in Mexico.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher, however, thinks the problem lies more with Norris' approach.
"If Lando wants to hold his own against Verstappen, he needs to be a bit more aggressive," Schumacher explained. "Anything other than that won't work against Max."
Schumacher also pointed out that Norris could have done more in the start of the US Grand Prix in Austin, stating that although Norris had a strong start, "he braked too hesitantly" and "was probably afraid that he would mess up the apex." He advised that this is an area where Norris needs to show "final decisiveness in a duel."
Christian Klien, another ex-F1 driver, echoed the sentiment. He told Servus TV: "I don't understand Norris. He has nothing to lose, with a big points gap to Verstappen. If he wins the title by going all out, he will be the big hero. But nobody will blame him if he doesn't win against the best driver of the moment."
When asked about his own thoughts on aggression, Norris gave an honest and self-critical response in Mexico: "It's a difficult question, and much more complicated than just saying 'yes'. Do I need to change anything? Yes. Is everything I do wrong? No."
While the controversy over Norris' Austin penalty continues to stir debate in the paddock, Verstappen feels he's being unfairly targeted, particularly in British media.
"I have the wrong passport," Verstappen said. "Don't get me wrong, I am very happy with my passport. But in this respect, it would help to have a different one."
Mercedes driver George Russell also weighed in, criticizing Verstappen's tactics in his battle with Norris. However, Verstappen wasn't concerned by the comments.
"I don't think he should worry too much about other people," Verstappen responded. "Focus on yourself. Enjoy your life. Don't always think about racing."
Verstappen further added that when fighting for the title, it's essential to perform at the highest level in every race. "I always try to get the maximum result. That is what I am here for after all."
