Lando Norris will compete with a fresh start in the F1 Mexico City Grand Prix, as stated by Oscar Piastri.

F1 News from Austin

Last week in Austin, one word seemed to stand out among the F1 teams.

The stage was set for the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas, ushering in a fresh race week. Yet, the memory of the opening lap from the Singapore Grand Prix still lingered in the paddock. Lando Norris, during that chaotic moment, was trying to push his way through the pack when he first collided with the back of Max Verstappen’s RB21, then veered to the right to avoid further trouble, only to end up clashing with teammate Oscar Piastri.

This incident did not fare well for Piastri and, as a result, his McLaren teammate called out for assistance from the pit wall. Despite that, it seems nothing decisive was done in the moment. However, during my time in Austin, I learned that the post-race debrief at Woking had left “repercussions” regarding Norris’ driving choices.

What these repercussions entailed, though, remained open for discussion.

On a positive note, it seems both drivers now have a “clean slate,” especially after an incident on the first lap of the US Grand Prix sprint race that left both Norris and Piastri sidelined. Piastri mentioned in Mexico City on Thursday that he acknowledges he “bears some responsibility” for the events that unfolded.

“Yeah, we reviewed it again. No matter what happened, we do this every weekend,” Piastri commented. “I do think I played a part in the sprint, and it’s good to acknowledge that.

“We both start fresh this weekend. It’s really about getting on the track and seeing who comes out ahead.”

When asked later if this meant Norris’ influence was no longer a factor, Piastri confirmed that indeed it was gone.

“Yes, the influence from Lando has been taken away,” he stated. “A lot played into what occurred, but ultimately, it was determined.”

Piastri currently leads the drivers’ championship by 14 points over Norris and holds a 40-point advantage over the determined Max Verstappen. Reflecting on the title chase, Piastri expressed he would prefer to be in the lead rather than chasing.

“I’ve definitely noticed the gap closing a bit in the past races, but my main goal has always been to focus on speed and making the most of each weekend. Some weekends I succeed, and others, well, not so much,” he said. “The external factors don’t matter as long as I perform each time.

“Everyone loves an underdog tale, sure, but I’d much rather be at the top than anywhere else. Honestly, it feels good as it shows we’re on the right track, though there’s always room for improvement.”