Lewis Hamilton’s strategic use of DRS during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix drew sharp criticism from Martin Brundle, who labeled the Ferrari driver’s defending “a bit naughty” after he nearly triggered a collision with Lando Norris. The seven-time champion repeatedly allowed Norris to pass at the final corner (Turn 27) to claim DRS rights on the main straight, then repassed the McLaren into Turn 1—a tactic reminiscent of Hamilton’s 2021 battles with Max Verstappen.
The DRS Chess Match
Norris, recovering from a Q3 crash that left him 10th on the grid, twice fell victim to Hamilton’s guile. By conceding the position just before the DRS detection line, Hamilton ensured he could slingshot back ahead with the speed boost, costing Norris critical time in his charge toward the podium. Brundle noted Hamilton’s early braking into Turn 27 forced Norris into evasive action, nearly causing a rear-end collision.
McLaren’s Teamwork Counters Hamilton
McLaren engineers orchestrated a response, instructing Oscar Piastri to avoid the same trap. Piastri’s race engineer, Tom Stallard, warned him to overtake Hamilton into Turn 1 instead of 27, leading to a bold around-the-outside pass at Turn 22 that showcased the Australian’s racecraft. Team principal Andrea Stella later revealed Hamilton’s tactics cost Norris crucial seconds, leaving him 1 second behind Charles Leclerc’s podium-finishing Ferrari.
Norris’ Lifestyle Shift Amid Title Fight
The battle coincided with Norris’ revelation that he has abstained from alcohol in 2025, mirroring Lewis Hamilton’s career-transforming discipline. Norris emphasized his focus on training and consistency, aiming to close the gap to new championship leader Piastri.
Hamilton’s Struggles Continue
While Hamilton’s racecraft earned Ferrari its first podium via Leclerc, his own P7 finish—coupled with a 1.2-second practice deficit to Norris—highlighted ongoing adaptation struggles. The Saudi weekend reinforced concerns about Hamilton’s synergy with the Ferrari, now compounded by scrutiny over his aggressive defensive moves.