Lando Norris targeted with online abuse after calling for rival driver to be banned
Norris called for Colapinto to be banned after the Alpine driver caused a three-car pile-up at the Azerbaijan GP
Formula One world champion Lando Norris faced a deluge of online abuse after advocating for a ban on Franco Colapinto. The incident transpired following a three-car collision during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which forced Norris out of Saturday's race. Colapinto's comments elicited widespread hostility on social media, primarily from his supporters.
The Alpine driver acknowledged responsibility for the collision and will serve a five-place grid penalty at the next race. In response to the online hostility, Colapinto's team released a statement condemning the abuse and addressing the issue universally. The team emphasized that no fan base or individual should be subjected to hateful or abusive comments, stressing the importance of maintaining respect and admiration for fellow competitors in the pinnacle of motorsport.
Norris's unfortunate DNF in Baku has left him 116 points behind Kimi Antonelli, effectively ending his title defence. George Russell's recent win has reduced Antonelli's lead to 66 points, with 208 points remaining over eight rounds. Russell, now Antonelli's most likely challenger, aims to capitalize on his victory at the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
However, Antonelli, who admitted to driving poorly after a qualifying crash, warned Russell that he will return to his best form in Sepang, emphasizing the need to re-establish his position in the championship.
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