In the starting moments of the Abu Dhabi GP, the title contenders already had their gloves off. In the first lap of the race, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton battled it out for the race lead- bringing out the first controversy of the evening.

Lewis Hamilton had a dream start as the lights went out and he took the race lead from his pole-sitting rival. Going into the first chicane on the circuit, Verstappen had his elbows out as he challenged Hamilton for the position.

Verstappen lunged into the corner as Hamilton ran wide, thus gaining an advantage. However, Verstappen immediately demanded that he be given his place back. The stewards reviewed the situation and believed otherwise.

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Red Bull and their driver were clearly not a fan of the ruling, and once again the airwaves lit up between the FIA ad Red Bull. While Red Bull questioned the steward’s decision, the FIA explained the reason behind their ruling.

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Verstappen was clear on his stance on the situation. “That is incredible. What are they doing here?” His frustrations were mirrored by his team on the pit wall who fought for their driver.

The first of two radio messages were of Red Bull being confused about the situation. Michael Masi cleared the air around their situation. “Jonathan, he forced him out there. That’s why we asked him to give back the advantage.”

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In short, Hamilton slowed down just enough to minimize the growing gap to his rival. Thus, the alleged “advantage” gained from going wide was, in a way, given back.

Red Bull wasn’t too pleased with this explanation. “We still don’t understand it. Max stayed fully on the track. He was ahead at the apex. At some point, the second car has to back out.”

However, the FIA didn’t fold in. “The stewards have looked at it and are not investigating it,” was the final statement. Will Red Bull pursue the controversial decision and demand for a review? Only time will tell as the Abu Dhabi GP unfolds.

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