George Russell supports penalties at Mexican Grand Prix 2024
- George Russell stated that the majority of Formula 1 drivers support immediate changes to racing rules after recent penalties during races.
- The call for change follows penalties given to Max Verstappen and Lando Norris at the United States GP and Mexican GP for their racing behaviors.
- Russell expressed optimism that the FIA will consider these changes ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix, indicating a strong alignment among drivers.
Last week during the Mexican Grand Prix, two prominent Formula 1 drivers, Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, received penalties that prompted a renewed focus on the sport's racing rules. This development follows the United States GP earlier in October, where Norris was penalized for a controversial overtaking maneuver that left him contesting the legitimacy of the penalty. The scrutiny of racing conduct has spurred discussions among drivers regarding the need for instantaneous adjustments to the rules. George Russell, a driver for Mercedes and a spokesperson for the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, stated that out of 20 drivers, 19 are in favor of changing the racing rules immediately rather than waiting until the proposed changes in 2025. The overwhelming support emphasizes the urgency felt within the driver community to ensure fair racing practices. Russell has indicated that the stewards of the race also recognize the need for a change. The situation has been exacerbated by intense battles on the track leading to penalties viewed by many as inconsistent. Consequently, drivers hope to have a discussion with the FIA on this matter before the Brazilian Grand Prix on November 3, indicating a proactive approach to the upcoming races. As the season nears its end, with only a few races remaining, drivers like Norris will face increased pressure to perform, while this regulatory discourse could significantly impact how future races are approached and judged.