Steiner critiques FIA’s inconsistent enforcement, arguing proper limits could have curbed Verstappen’s aggressive racing style.
Günther Steiner, now a consultant for various television channels in the F1 paddock, believes that Max Verstappen has effectively used the current F1 system’s limits in his driving and overtakes.
The former Haas F1 boss doesn’t blame Verstappen when Eurosport asks his thoughts on Verstappen’s behavior with title rival Lando Norris in Austin and Mexico.
“We all know Max and his racing style. I respect that he pushes the limits. What happened in Austin? He said, ‘There’s no limit for me. I keep pushing.’ And now, in Mexico, he was given a limit, but it caused a lot of controversy.”
“I wouldn’t blame Max for this. I’d rather blame the lack of a penalty in Austin. If he’d had a five-second penalty in Austin, I’m sure he wouldn’t have done what he did in Mexico on Sunday. If you give him leeway, he’ll push further. Max is that kind of driver.”
“Actually, he’s always testing limits, even in life, I think. And that’s what he did. To me, it highlighted the inconsistency of the stewards. What was acceptable in Austin wasn’t in Mexico. They have new rules, but it’s a bit confusing.”
When asked if Norris is therefore “too nice” to be world champion, Steiner replies, “You could say yes, he is too nice.”
“But I think Lando wants to race respectfully, fairly. He stays within the rules, nothing more. What happened in Mexico shows he’s a proper driver. He could have hit Max once or twice, but it wouldn’t have helped him. So no, he’s not too nice. He wants to show he can race fairly.”
“Lando can become champion. I’ve always said he needs Ferrari’s help to be champion, but Ferrari has to get between McLaren and Red Bull. Not ahead of him. But what Ferrari is doing could really help Lando win the title.”
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Inconsistent FIA Rules, Not Verstappen, to Blame: Steiner Inconsistent FIA Rules, Not Verstappen, to Blame: Steiner
