Lando Norris has issued an apology to Franco Colapinto after demanding a race ban over the Baku collision.
The Incident
During the Azerbaijan Grand Prix restart, Colapinto locked into Turn 1 on the slippery street circuit, launching a pile‑up that took out himself, Pierre Gasly and Norris. The low grip and erratic tyre temperatures magnified the chaotic turn‑one moment.
Norris’s Reaction and Apology
Stunned by the crash, Norris called for a one‑race ban, accusing Colapinto of careless driving that “cost a lot of money” and sent his parts to a bin. He added that the FIA should impose stricter penalties for such incidents.
Within two days, Norris sent Colapinto a private message, admitting his comments were “wrong” and born of high emotion. He emphasized that the two drivers remained good friends and were eager to race again.
Colapinto accepted responsibility for the “big mistake,” a move that angered Alpine chief Flavio Briatore and cost the team a double points finish.
Aftermath and Outlook
With the weekend concluded and the standings settled, the drivers have moved past the dispute. The episode underscores the challenges of Baku’s demanding conditions and the expectation that drivers anticipate on slippery circuits. For Norris, it serves as a reminder of the professional conduct required on the grid.
Photo by Michael Potts / LAT images via Getty Images
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