Hamilton and Norris stand up for Verstappen: 'Hope he doesn't do it'
F1 News
Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris have stood up in support of Max Verstappen after the Dutchman was given a community service-style penalty for swearing in the press conference. The Dutchman made a statement in the press conference and his two rivals backed him. Hamilton even told Verstappen not to take part in the community service.
The routine top three finishers press conference took place after the session. This time, however, the press conference was slightly different, as the drivers teamed up against the FIA after Max Verstappen's recent community service punishment for 'foul' language.
What does the polesitter think about Verstappen's punishment? "Deserved it!" Norris joked in the post-qualifying press conference. "I think it's pretty unfair. I don't agree with any of it." Norris said after his pole position.
Hamilton: Punishment is 'a joke'
Lewis Hamilton also added: "I think it's a bit of a joke, to be honest. This is the pinnacle of the sport. Mistakes are made. I certainly wouldn’t be doing it, and I hope Max (Verstappen) doesn't do it." Hamilton said.
Clearly, drivers aren't happy with the FIA's decision to punish Verstappen. The Dutchman himself was very quiet in the press conference, telling journalists he would talk to them outside but not in the official press conference room. How the FIA will address this remains to be seen.
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