Andrea Stella, McLaren F1 team principal, expresses concern over Max Verstappen lining up alongside Lando Norris, fearing a potential clash reminiscent of the historic Prost-Senna rivalry.
McLaren F1 will have to contend with Max Verstappen on the front row alongside pole-sitter Lando Norris. This situation slightly worries team principal Andrea Stella, who is not satisfied with Oscar Piastri starting from fifth place.
“I would have preferred a grid with two McLarens, first and second,” Stella admitted. “That would have given us a bit of protection. But from the race’s perspective, from F1’s perspective, from the spectacle’s perspective, it’s a very interesting grid.”
“I hope the race unfolds without issues. None of the drivers wants to see a Prost-Senna-type incident at Suzuka. We want to race; we want the best car to win races. We want to have the same kind of excitement as in the last few races.”
Stella is conscious that keeping the lead at the start will be crucial: “Our car has been very strong on long runs, so I think if we can take the lead, we should be able to control the race.”
“Because we are very encouraged by our high-fuel pace. Verstappen may try to see how he can take the lead. He will even think strategically about how to make that possible.”
The Italian also joked about Lewis Hamilton, a former McLaren driver, starting behind on the grid: “I hope that Hamilton, due to his past with McLaren, will help us a bit and finish the first lap ahead of Verstappen, and that could help Lando… obviously, I’m joking!”
But his conclusion is clear that the start will be essential: “Having Lando and Max next to each other will make our evening more tense. But I think that if Lando takes the lead, the car’s performance and Lando’s own are very promising for the race.”
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McLaren Chief Unhappy with Verstappen Beside Norris McLaren Chief Unhappy with Verstappen Beside Norris
