Sources at Red Bull have indicated that the team are surprised by Mercedes' decision to seek a review of the latest incident involving Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton at Interlagos. Verstappen and Hamilton went wheel-to-wheel for the lead on Lap 48/71 of Sunday's race, after the Mercedes got a run on the Red Bull along the straight between Turns 3 and 4. Verstappen went unpunished after appearing to force Hamilton off the track, with the stewards noting the incident before deciding that no further action was necessary. However, FIA Race Director Michael Masi explained post-race that the decision was made without access to Verstappen’s onboard camera, which has since been released . Shortly afterwards, Mercedes announced their intention to request a right of review "on the basis of new evidence unavailable to the stewards at the time of their decision". It is believed that Mercedes see the non-documented decision not to investigate further as one that should be reviewed.
Red Bull surprised by Mercedes
RacingNews365.com understands from sources within Red Bull that they are taken aback by the move, as they believe the onboard camera from Verstappen's car supported Masi's original view that it was firm but fair racing , with both cars braking very late and running deep. It comes after an already tension-filled Grand Prix weekend, as the battle between Mercedes and Red Bull for the 2021 F1 World Championship enters its closing stages. Red Bull have raised several questions over Mercedes' straight-line speed in recent weeks, with a particular focus on the W12's rear wing , amid suspicions of flexing. While no protest action is currently planned, Red Bull are monitoring the situation.
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