Formula 1: Sainz leads Ferrari to victory in Mexico as Norris calls Verstappen ‘dangerous’

Mexico City, Oct 28 (IANS)

Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz cruised to a commanding victory, marking a third win in five races and intensifying the constructor’s battle as Ferrari leapfrogged Red Bull into second place at the Mexico City Grand Prix.

It also brought the championship battle to a fever pitch as McLaren’s Lando Norris called Red Bull’s Max Verstappen “dangerous” after a series of on-track clashes led to two time penalties for Verstappen.

The reigning champion, who still managed a sixth-place finish despite his infractions, faced criticism over aggressive manoeuvres that underscored a turbulent season’s most contentious moments.

The Norris-Verstappen showdown unfolded on lap 10 after a safety car restart following a crash involving Alex Albon and Yuki Tsunoda, which had forced both drivers to retire.

As Norris, running side-by-side with Verstappen at Turn Four, took an outside line, Verstappen pushed him off-track—a move deemed too aggressive by race stewards who later penalised Verstappen. A second incident at Turn Eight, where Verstappen once again failed to give room, earned him another penalty.

Norris was visibly frustrated over the radio, saying, “I was ahead the whole way through the corner. This guy is dangerous. I have to avoid a crash.”

In contrast to the tension surrounding Verstappen, Ferrari’s Sainz delivered a flawless performance, winning from pole position and marking Ferrari’s third victory in the last five races.