Share

FIA draw a line under Ocon, Verstappen clash

Cape Town - The matter between Max Verstappen and Esteban Ocon is over, at least according to the FIA who feel there is no need for further invention. 

It became extremely heated between the long-time rivals last time out in Brazil when they clashed while Ocon tried to unlap himself off race leader Verstappen. 

He went around the outside of 1 to get the better line into 2 but, with no room to squeeze through, the two collided and spun. 

Ocon was hit with a 10-second stop-go penalty while Verstappen's punishment was undoubtedly the harshest as he finished second in a race he should have won. 

The Dutchman confronted Ocon after the race, later revealing that the Force India driver's "smile" resulted in his giving him a shove, not once but thrice. 

Verstappen has been handed two days of public service for that. 

Asked by Autosport if he felt further talks were needed, FIA race director Charlie Whiting said: "We've done that already, I think the stewards have made it clear. 

"Let's be realistic, it's happened a number of times in the past: we all know that. 

"In terms of the actual incident, it didn't look that serious but any physical contact I don't think can be condoned." 

But it wasn't just Verstappen's behaviour that raised eyebrows. 

Speaking to Sky F1 in the immediate aftermath of the grand prix, Red Bull boss Christian Horner said Ocon was "lucky" to get away with only a push. 

Whiting's response to that: "It's not a great thing to hear but in the heat of the moment, and having lost a race that they would probably have won, I can understand comments like that."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE