Max Verstappen believes it would be wise if the FIA used the off-season to review the rules and regulations after what he described as “double standards” in Mexico, after he was penalised for cutting a corner.
The Red Bull driver was handed a five-second time penalty for cutting across Turn 1 whilst defending from Sebastian Vettel, dropping him to fifth place – he was later promoted to fourth when Vettel was also penalised, handing the podium to Verstappen’s team-mate Daniel Ricciardo.
However Verstappen claims the penalty was unfairly applied because race winner Lewis Hamilton did exactly the same on the opening lap and escaped punishment.
“The problem with this kind of rule is that they complicate the sport for the fans, but also for the stewards themselves,” he wrote in his column for sponsor Exact.
“That was evident in Mexico. Lewis Hamilton cut the first corner and was not penalised. Fine, but after I did exactly the same in my fight with Sebastian Vettel, I got a five-second penalty and I lost third place.
“That is a ridiculous situation. Lewis and I both missed the braking point in exactly the same corner. I had just as little advantage as he did, because I went into the corner first and came out first.
“The fact I am punished, but not Lewis, indicates that there are double standards.”
Verstappen suggested it was time the rules were reviewed to ensure they’re applied consistently and fairly.
“The current season has two races left. Maybe we can use the winter to work on the rules and regulations, put them under the microscope and to create more clarity.
“Because rules are obviously needed and I will always respect them, but it is only fair if they are the same for everyone.”