However, the Dutchman maintained his line, although Norris still ended up on the grass trying to pass his rival.
Radio battle at F1 Japanese Grand Prix
In the aftermath, both exchanged urgent radio calls with their respective race engineers. Verstappen claimed wrongdoing on Norris's behalf, saying: “He forced me out.” followed by “he drove himself into the grass.” while also suggesting that Norris had released his pit-lane speed limiter too early.
Red Bull, who were calm in their response, said: “We know the game Max, as you are.”
Norris meanwhile said he was forced onto the grass but after the FIA noted the incident, took no further investigation.
Commentating for Sky Sports, Jacques Villeneueve, in place of the absent Martin Brundle, backed Verstappen in the incident: “He didn’t do anything wrong there he was on his line.”