Red Bull doesn't "condone violence" but also argued the "drivers aren't robots" as team boss Christian Horner clarified his post-Brazilian GP comments.
The Briton suggested Esteban Ocon was lucky only to be pushed by Max Verstappen when the pair came face-to-face in Parc Ferme following their collision during Sunday's race.
Max had to be ushered out of the weighing area by an FIA official and was later given two days public service for his actions, but Horner doesn't think the situation was too severe.
“I don’t think it got out of hand,” he was quoted by PlanetF1. “Through the irresponsible actions of a backmarker we’ve lost a Grand Prix, and it just wasn’t handled at all well by Ocon.
“It was totally irresponsible to be racing Max."
Known as one of the more vocal teams in terms of criticising others and allowing their drivers to express themselves, Red Bull also believe there was justification for Verstappen's reaction.
“Of course we don’t condone violence in any way but you have to understand that emotions are running very high," Horner continued.
“Drivers aren’t robots at the end of the day and nor should they be. One can understand emotions in the heat of the moment.
“Of course, there’s a human reaction in these competitive animals that are Formula 1 drivers.”
Also Read:
- Verstappen 'still not able to manage his emotions', Brawn claims
- Red Bull call for Ocon race ban as Verstappen defends post-race actions
- Ocon claims Verstappen 'wanted to punch me' during post-Brazil confrontation
Sky Sports commentator and former F1 racer Martin Brundle has advised Verstappen over his "red mist" moments, however, suggesting he "should keep them in his head".
“I’m pleased nothing much more than that happened,” he added.
“I love characters and passion in this digital world of ours, but Max needs to address this red mist as it will cost him dearly down the road somewhere.”
The Dutchman shows no willingness to calm down though...
“If they come to me with a psychologist, I’ll kick them out right away,” he told Holland's Ziggo Sport.
“You have to stand firmly in your own shoes. I don’t need anyone. My father is a bit like a psychologist anyway.”
