It’s been a nail-biting race at the Interlagos as debris and safety cars played a crucial role in slowing down the race leaders. However, with Max Verstappen in the lead, and Lewis Hamilton close behind him, the race has been far from boring. After two pit stops, the leading teams were in for wheel-to-wheel racing, and the duels were quick to come. But has race leader Verstappen pushed a little too hard?

As the championship protagonists closed in on each other on lap 50, going into turn 3 looking to grab the lead from his rival. However, no one was willing to back down from the heat championship battle. Verstappen, determined to keep his lead in the race and on the board, played it aggressively. As Hamilton closed in on him, Verstappen refused to give room for an overtake.

Soon, both drivers were off the track, with Verstappen coming back to maintain his lead.

As always, Mercedes wasn’t too happy with it, and Red Bull defended their driver. Looking at the footage, it looks like Verstappen did risk a collision, while Hamilton pulled back to prevent the same. However, the FIA decided the event did not require an investigation.

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Verstappen was under the threat of a five-second penalty but was absolved of a ruined race. However, this triggered a little controversy amid a tight fight for a crucial position.

Red Bull and Lewis Hamilton start the conversation early

As the radio battle started with Red Bull letting the FIA know, “It’s about letting them compete.” While the FIA is well aware of the rivalry, Michael Masi retorted, “Thank you very much for your involvement, we are reviewing it.”

While the review favored Verstappen in the end, Lewis Hamilton wasn’t too surprised that things went the Dutchman’s way again this weekend. A sarcastic “of course, of course,” was his reply to the result, only ready to push harder for an overtake.

Hamilton did get his revenge though, as the reigning champion went on to take the lead from the championship leader; a statement had been made.

The Brazilian GP has been a stupendous one, with the championship battle far from over. Who will emerge victorious as the checkered flag drops? Only moments before we find out.

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