Verstappen's 'Silly Driving' in Mexico Deserved Harsher Penalty, Says Brundle

Former F1 driver Martin Brundle argues that Max Verstappen should have received a drive-through penalty for his controversial maneuver at the start of the Mexico Grand Prix, where he cut the Turns 1-2-3 section. Brundle described Verstappen's move as 'silly driving' and a calculated risk, emphasizing the need for stricter deterrents to prevent such incidents.

Why it matters:

F1's first-lap incidents, particularly at complex corners like Mexico's Turn 1, often spark debate about driving standards and penalty consistency. Stricter enforcement, as Brundle suggests, could prevent drivers from exploiting track limits, ensuring fairer racing and reducing chaotic starts. The ongoing discussion highlights a fundamental tension between aggressive racing and adherence to rules, with significant implications for championship battles and the integrity of the sport.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Shortcut: At the start of the Mexico GP, Verstappen, starting from the dusty outside kerb, locked up into Turn 1 and drove straight through to the exit of Turn 3, emerging in third place. He later conceded a position to Lewis Hamilton, returning to fourth.
• Brundle's Stance: Martin Brundle, a Sky Sports pundit, believes Verstappen's action was a deliberate 'accelerate through the grass' move, not an attempt to take the corners, and therefore deserved a drive-through penalty as a 'proper deterrent'.
• Villeneuve's Counterpoint: 1997 F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve disagreed, arguing that while the action might seem wrong, Verstappen's move technically adhered to the rules by allowing Hamilton to pass. Villeneuve highlighted the difficulty of judging 'intent' in F1 rules.
• Leclerc's Similar Incident: Charles Leclerc also cut Turn 2 after being on the outside of Norris and Hamilton, emerging in the lead. He let Norris through but maintained his position over Hamilton. Brundle believes this, too, warranted a 10-second penalty, a sentiment Villeneuve agreed with, noting Leclerc was behind Hamilton and seemingly exploited the situation.
• The Turn 1 Problem: Both Brundle and Villeneuve agree that Mexico's Turn 1-3 section presents a recurring problem. The forgiving run-off areas encourage drivers to take risks, knowing there's no severe penalty for cutting the corner. Suggestions include gravel traps or walls to deter such maneuvers.

Between the lines:

• Driver Frustration: George Russell called his peers' driving