Lando Norris Laughs Off Red Bull‘s Sabotage Attempt at US GP
Lando Norris has lightheartedly dismissed Red Bull’s controversial effort to disrupt his starting position during the recent United States Grand Prix. Mclaren’s star driver claimed he “didn’t need” the tape intended to aid his grid positioning, which ultimately backfired for Red Bull when they were penalised for breaching marshal instructions.
Red Bull Fined for Grid Interference
Red Bull was fined €50,000, with half of the penalty suspended, after a team member accessed the grid against directives during the formation lap at the Circuit of the Americas. The aim was to remove a strip of tape placed by McLaren to help Norris line up in his grid box correctly as he started second, directly behind reigning world champion Max Verstappen.
Norris Finds Amusement in the Situation
“It was extra amusing because I didn’t need it,” Norris said after finishing as runner-up to Verstappen. “We just put it there in case.” Despite Red Bull’s efforts to remove the tape, which left a mark on the pitwall, it served as a source of laughter for Norris and his team. “I think it’s just amusing, little side quests for the teams to entertain themselves,” he added.
Strategic Markers: A McLaren Tradition
This strategic use of tape is not new for McLaren, especially after Norris received a five-second penalty at April’s Bahrain Grand Prix for incorrectly positioning his car. This tactic aims to prevent future grid mishaps and has been employed consistently since.
Previous Attempts by Red Bull
Interestingly, this wasn’t the first time Red Bull had attempted to interfere with Norris’s grid markers. A similar situation occurred during the Singapore Grand Prix, although McLaren seemingly anticipated this, jokingly leaving a “better luck next time” note under the tape at Marina Bay. Norris noted there were attempts made in Monza as well.
The Challenge of Grid Positioning
Markers are essential with restricted cockpit visibility, but Norris primarily relies on the grid lines during races. “I mostly use the line on the grid,” he stated, explaining that the tape serves as a backup for tricky scenarios.
The Championship Battle Heats Up
As the 2025 season approaches its climax with five rounds remaining, Norris and McLaren find themselves in a fierce battle for the drivers’ crown. Oscar Piastri leads the charge, boasting a 14-point lead over Norris, while Verstappen holds third, a further 40 points adrift.
Lando Norris’s humorous dismissal of Red Bull’s shameless tactics epitomises the competitive spirit of Formula 1 as teams not only battle on the track but also engage in mind games off it.
