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Lando Norris issued a firm retort to the complaints from his fellow driver Oscar Piastri following their clash during the Singapore Grand Prix, asserting how any driver who would avoid an identical passing move should not compete in F1.

On-Track Clash Ignites Internal Conflict

The race on the Marina Bay street circuit was won by Russell, but was characterized due to the incident in the first corners, where Lando Norris challenged Piastri then collided with his teammate after he had nudged the car driven by Max Verstappen ahead.

Any driver on the grid would have tried a similar thing that I did, therefore if you fault me for just going on the inside of an opening you ought not be in Formula One,” he said. It was acceptable with what I did.”

Championship Battle Heats Up

The two McLaren drivers are engaged in a direct battle for the championship, with McLaren winning the constructors’ championship at the Singapore GP. The pair ended up third and fourth, as Norris closed the points gap on Piastri to twenty-two points and six rounds remaining.

The Australian driver was incensed during the race, decrying that it was unjust that the team did not step in to have Norris give back the position because he argued he had barged him off the line. However, race officials took no action.

Norris's Defense

I underestimated slightly the proximity I was to Max, but that's part of racing plus I would have finished in front of Oscar regardless,” said Norris. I took the inside line so the last thing I intended to do was to collide with Oscar. Considering my standing I'm in, I cannot afford making contact compared to him. Race officials deemed it okay and the team agreed.”

Piastri's Response

Oscar Piastri stated he would reserve judgment till McLaren held a review. “I need to look at the video and in more detail and form my conclusion then,” he stated. “It is the first lap, emotions are high so we are encouraged to voice our views regarding the clash. I expressed mine and we will discuss it in the future.”

Team Principal's Viewpoint

The McLaren team principal Stella also emphasized the team would take under consideration their approach to managing their drivers. We must place everything in perspective. These are the remarks from a driver during an F1 race, there's the intensity of competition. The information that is available is just his point of view. As always we'll hold a productive talk, learn from it and emerge stronger.”