Japanese GP Mercedes lodge Max Verstappen complaint

Mercedes have lodged a protest against Max Verstappen for his defence of second place from Lewis Hamilton in the Japanese Grand Prix. Mercedes claim Red Bull's Verstappen drove "erratically and in a dangerous manner" in contravention of rules in the move on the penultimate lap. The protest will be heard at the US Grand Prix on 21-23 October because neither drive could attend on Sunday. Hamilton said over the radio after the move: "Verstappen moved under braking." The drivers have a gentleman's agreement to not change direction in a braking zone, but it is not outlawed. ▪ Read more: Rosberg extends title lead with win ▪ Hamilton - I'll give it everything ▪ Listen: Hamilton makes disastrous start The protest is under article 27.5 of the sporting regulations, which states: "At no time may a car be driven unnecessarily slowly, erratically or in a manner which could be deemed potentially dangerous to other drivers or any other person." The protest says Verstappen's driving "forced [Hamilton] to take evasive action". Verstappen, who was spoken to about the incident by F1 director Charlie Whiting after the race, waited in the middle of the track before moving to defend only when he saw which side Hamilton was going to attack. It is the same behaviour with which he upset Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen during the Hungarian Grand Prix in July. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said: "We know now Max moves under braking but it is not for me to judge." Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said he felt the move was "hard but fair".