Max Verstappen has stated an F1 driver would have to be “really stupid” to crash into the recovery tractors that were on circuit during the Australian Grand Prix.
Lap 34 of the race saw Fernando Alonso become a victim of the slippery Albert Park Circuit as he spun into the barrier on the exit of Turn 6.
A recovery vehicle was deployed on the track under safety car conditions, with replays showing the drivers catching it at Turn 12.
While the safety car went through the run-off area to avoid getting near the vehicle, the F1 pack led by Lando Norris drove past it on the track.
Race-winner Norris was asked by media including RacingNews365 if drivers had concerns over the vehicle being on the live circiut with the drivers, to which he replied: “I was comfortable.”
Max Verstappen, who ended the race in second place, offered a more robust response to the question.
“I thought that was all fine. If you crash into that behind the safety car, you are really stupid.”
Norris then jibed: “You shouldn’t even be in F1 then!”
George Russell was also present at the time of the question being asked, and stated: “It was all fine.”
F1 has increased safety measured across the last number of years regarding recovery vehicles on-track and the conditions under which they may enter.
At the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix, Jules Bianchi collided with a tractor that was recovering a stricken car from the barrier, resulting in his death.
Also interesting:
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Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes and Nick Golding, as they dissect an Australian Grand Prix season-opener to remember, as Lando Norris survived wet chaos to win.
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