Explaining the Stewards' Decisions: Verstappen vs. Hamilton at Mexican GP

A fierce on-track battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen at the Mexican Grand Prix led to several steward investigations, with a critical ruling on their Turn 1 clash as a 'racing incident' while Hamilton received a penalty for gaining an advantage at Turn 4.

Why it matters:

The stewards' decisions in this high-profile skirmish between two of F1's biggest stars often spark debate and set precedents for future racing conduct. Understanding their reasoning is crucial for fans and teams alike, as it clarifies the boundaries of aggressive racing and fair play, particularly in championship-deciding moments.

The Details:

• Turn 1 Clash (Verstappen vs. Hamilton):

  • On Lap 6, Verstappen dove inside at Turn 1, carrying momentum slightly wide and making contact with Hamilton on the exit, forcing Hamilton wide.
  • The stewards deemed this a 'racing incident,' attributing no predominant blame to either driver.
  • The investigation focused on Hamilton not leaving enough room on exit, not Verstappen's aggressive lunge.
  • Stewards' Justification: Verstappen's front axle was ahead of Hamilton's mirror at the apex, entitling him to the racing line. Hamilton remained alongside, resulting in slight, inconsequential contact. Given Hamilton had limited space, both cars were side-by-side, and no significant sporting consequence, it was a racing incident, consistent with past decisions.

• Turn 4 Incidents (Hamilton):

  • Hamilton faced two investigations for running wide at Turn 4.
  • First Investigation (Not using asphalt escape road):
    • Hamilton used the grass instead of the prescribed asphalt escape road.
    • The stewards found he had too much speed to use the asphalt road, thus justifying his deviation.
  • Second Investigation (Gaining lasting advantage):
    • By using the grass, Hamilton gained track position over Verstappen.
    • The stewards concluded Hamilton breached regulations, imposing a 10-second time penalty for leaving the track, cutting the corner, gaining a lasting advantage, and failing to yield the position.

Reactions:

Hamilton was displeased with the penalty, stating, "It felt like racing I was fine there, it was just the cutting, and I’m the only one to get a 10s penalty, it’s kind of nuts." He accepted the Turn 1 incident as part of racing but questioned the consistency of penalties for corner-cutting.