Red Bull's Misstep: Unfounded Claims Stir Controversy in F1

Red Bull apologized after mistakenly alleging that Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli allowed Lando Norris to pass him during the Qatar Grand Prix. Footage revealed Antonelli lost control, helping Norris maintain his lead over Max Verstappen. Mercedes' Toto Wolff backed Antonelli amidst online criticism.

Red Bull has issued an apology following erroneous claims that Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli intentionally let McLaren's Lando Norris pass him during the Qatar Grand Prix. This misinformation led to online backlash against Antonelli.

Norris, who was running fifth, overtook Antonelli for fourth after the Italian briefly lost control of his vehicle towards the end of Sunday's race. This successful pass allowed Norris to keep a 12-point lead over Red Bull's Max Verstappen in the standings.

Red Bull's advisor Helmut Marko had initially suggested Antonelli 'waved him by,' but the team later clarified that footage showed Antonelli's mistake was involuntary. Mercedes' team leader Toto Wolff defended Antonelli, emphasizing the young driver's competitive intent.

(With inputs from agencies.)