Verstappen tactics prompt F1 clampdown on moving under braking

Verstappen closed the door on Hamilton on the penultimate lap at Suzuka as they slowed for the chicane, with his late dart to the right forcing his Mercedes rival to take avoiding action and run down the escape road.

The issue prompted intense debate during Friday night's drivers' briefing, where a number of leading stars complained about what Verstappen had done at various points this season.

F1 race director Charlie Whiting took on board the views of the drivers – many of whom claim it is extremely dangerous for such defensive moves while under braking – and it is understood he will be issuing a clarification ahead of the United States Grand Prix race about what is and is not allowed from now on.

While there may not be a specific regulation change, an interpretation from Whiting about what he considers to be acceptable behaviour would be enough to force drivers to fall in line.

Several F1 drivers said that they hope Whiting's imminent clarification would deal with the matter in a swift way.

Sergio Perez said: "We discussed especially the moves of some of the more inexperienced drivers, the ones who have been in the sport for one or two years, who move very late under braking, which can cause an accident.

"We talked about it, and Charlie said we were right. We hope we can see a change after these talks we had. From our point of view he should have been penalised for the move we saw."

Carlos Sainz said that he believed the issue of moving under braking had become an ever bigger issue over the past few seasons.

"I think it has been the last couple of years, I saw it last year," he said. "Maybe the big names were not involved, but as always in F1, when things happen at the front it gets a bit more commented on. It is always the same case, as soon as it gets a bit more up the thing it gets a bit more commented.

"We are professionals and that is why we need a clear rule in our head. We will do whatever it takes to defend our position."

He added: "Charlie has his point of view. He will go back and analyse what we have all commented on today and Friday, and if on Sunday there will be a note from the FIA arriving, saying they will be more strict with it, we know it for Sunday. And if not the same rules will be applied."

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