Verstappen’s ‘FIA-Crying’ Moves Pleased Magnussen

Max Verstappen has drawn support from some F1 drivers amid recent criticism of his driving style, with the reigning world champion involved in three controversial incidents in two races.

Verstappen first pushed the rules to the limit when defending against Lando Norris at the United States Grand Prix. The McLaren driver went off the track as he tried to pass him, but argued that Verstappen had forced him off the track.

Many F1 drivers agreed with Norris that he was clearly ahead when he braked, but some drivers disagreed with Norris, arguing that Verstappen’s tactics were tough but fair.

Norris received a five-second penalty for this move, but it was Verstappen who was penalised by the FIA ​​in Mexico. He was given two 10-second penalties, once for pushing Norris onto the grass at Turn 4 and once for re-passing him off the track at Turn 8.

Martin Brundle has led the charge against Verstappen, describing his second move as “ridiculous”.

Esteban Ocon has been one of Verstappen’s biggest supporters, despite a previous falling out with the Red Bull driver at Interlagos, who has argued that going overboard in pursuit of a title is legitimate.

Kevin Magnussen joined Ocon in openly defending Verstappen. Speaking on the Viaplay ‘Debrief’ programme in Denmark, the Haas driver is known as one of the most aggressive drivers on the grid. In September, he became the first driver to be banned from racing under the penalty points system after accumulating 12 penalty points during the year.

Magnussen, who re-watched footage of Verstappen’s move on Norris at Turn 8 in Mexico, described the move as “amazing” and said he was pleased with the reaction the 27-year-old received.

“The reason I find it great is because it’s making a lot of people angry. Everyone’s shouting, screaming and the FIA ​​is crying about it. Calm down a bit,” said Magnussen.