McLaren Boss Plays Down Norris Race Row

Stella Stresses Importance of Team Play for Norris

21/07/2024

McLaren’s Stella emphasizes Norris’s role and cools controversy, steering the team focus forward.

Andrea Stella, Team Director at McLaren F1, elaborated upon arrival why it was crucial for Lando Norris to adhere to team instructions today…

The Briton took numerous laps to relinquish the lead to Oscar Piastri, a position he gained through an earlier undercut designed to shield him from Lewis Hamilton.

“I believe it was more than just that final comment and message from Will Joseph that told him to consider the team and the future. We have a comprehensive approach to racing with our team and drivers.”

“We are on this trajectory together. None of us— the team, Lando, or Oscar—can do it alone. That was the message we discussed this morning.”

“With racing drivers, you need to refresh that message in their minds. That’s why we have this meeting every Sunday.”

“We are extremely pleased with how our drivers support McLaren’s trajectory, which is incredible. For me, that’s today’s news. We can talk more about Lando and Oscar, but the message is that there are 1st and 2nd places in qualifying and the same in the race. It’s incredible, and I would like to thank and acknowledge all the hard work of the men and women at McLaren for making this possible.”

“I know of no driver who, when leading a race, would be happy to say ‘oh yes, of course, why not revert to the previous order?’ It’s not possible; it’s not in the nature of drivers.”

“I would be extremely concerned otherwise. You would see me very worried if Lando said that. That’s why we had to remind ourselves of our principles on Sunday morning.”

“It’s true for a driver if we want to be competitive in the championship, for Lando particularly in the strongest position, he will need the support of Oscar and the team’s backing. I believe that’s how we progress.”

McLaren Boss Plays Down Norris Race Row

McLaren Boss Plays Down Norris Race Row McLaren Boss Plays Down Norris Race Row

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