McLAREN believe Formula One’s failure to clamp down on Max Verstappen’s driving in his 2021 title battle against Lewis Hamilton paved the way for the Red Bull driver’s collision with Lando Norris in Sunday’s Austrian Grand Prix.

Norris, 24, described Verstappen’s defensive moves in their duel for the lead as “dangerous” prior to their explosive coming together with just seven laps remaining.

Norris, who has emerged as Verstappen’s closest title rival, was forced to retire with damage, while Verstappen — despite being penalised 10 seconds by the stewards — recovered to finish fifth, extending his championship lead over his rival from 71 points to 81.