Horner expresses F1 fear after latest Verstappen controversy

Christian Horner has expressed concerns that the FIA is "over-complicating" the rules in F1, and has called for a discussion between the drivers and the governing body.

The Red Bull team principal's demand comes after Max Verstappen received two 10-second time penalties in Mexico City, both incidents involving Lando Norris. 

On lap 10, Verstappen forced Norris off the circuit at Turn 4, before he gained an advantage at Turn 7, taking the Briton off the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez once again with him. 

Before Verstappen and Norris' latest clashes, the drivers and the FIA met in Mexico City, where it was confirmed that the governing body would adjust the F1 racing guidelines.

The meeting was in response to Verstappen and Norris' incident in Austin, which saw Norris penalised and lose a podium, to the frustration of several drivers. 

A concern raised was that Verstappen exploits the guidelines with his aggressive driving, which Horner does not believe will change. 

"Max will always drive aggressively to what he perceives as the regulations, and when you step over that mark, then, of course, you get a penalty," Horner told select media including RacingNews365. 

"I just fear that we're perhaps over-complicating [the rules], and all I would do is encourage that there's a constructive discussion between the drivers and the driver steward to say, okay, we're going to have another four hotly contested races, what is and what isn't acceptable?"

Red Bull in title fight

Verstappen could only salvage sixth in Mexico City after serving his penalties, which saw Red Bull drop behind Ferrari in the constructors' championship as Sergio Perez finished in 17th. 

Horner accepts that winning the title is now unlikely, but that the Milton Keynes-based team will continue to push. 

"I think it will be very difficult," conceded Horner. "We never give up, we'll fight very hard. We need both cars, obviously scoring.

"Ferrari had another big score today. As far as the constructors' is concerned, we're certainly on the back foot."