Just as everyone thought the drama from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix had settled, the FIA released a document confirming an investigation on Max Verstappen for a potential Virtual Safety Car (VSC) infringement. This stunned both fans and Verstappen alike as the supposed infringement happened after the race had concluded.
The VSC was launched during the final laps of the race. This was due to a crash between Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez on lap 50. As it turned out, it was Lando Norris who first noticed the Verstappen’s infringement.
Lando Norris Radios In About Max Verstappen’s Infringement
After the crash between Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez, Norris radioed to his team to let them know that “Max is overtaking everyone”. He asked “It’s still a VSC, right? I don’t know if it still matters or not, but it’s still a VSC.” Norris was questioning Verstappen’s move and it’s legality as his car still flashed yellow and VSC, the same thing his car had on it when he aborted his second lap during Q1.
Shortly after Norris’s radio to his team, Verstappen was summoned to the stewards citing a VSC infringement. In an interview with SkySports, Verstappen said he “did not pass on the virtual safety car, we had passed the line”.
Verstappen went on to say that there was proof of him doing this in the past as well as this current season. He mentioned that he was “a bit surprised” at being summoned.
The 3-time Champion was not the only driver being questioned about the VSC infringement. Nico Hulkenberg, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly were also noted to have done the same thing as Verstappen.
However, the FIA did not penalize any of the drivers, saying, “The Stewards are aware that this happened earlier this season and was not noticed at the time.” The drivers were let off with a warning but were told that “further breaches may incur significant penalties”.
Lando Norris alerted the FIA to his championship rival Max Verstappen’s potential infringement at the end of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Max is overtaking everyone,” Norris reported over the radio. “It’s still a VSC, right? I don’t know if it still matters or not, but it’s still… pic.twitter.com/4uX6nb4WtB
— Fastest Pitstop (@FastestPitStop) September 15, 2024
Earlier this season and in past seasons, drivers have overtaken under the VSC after crossing the finish line. However, these instances were not noted by the FIA. This instance was only noted by the FIA because Norris had pointed it out on the radio.
At this time all drivers have been left off with a warning. However, since all the drivers have been warned about this, there is a high chance that the next time there will be penalties.
Do you think Norris alerted FIA about the potential infringement hoping that Verstappen would get a penalty? Post your thoughts in the comments section below.