McLaren faces growing pressure to back one driver as Piastri’s consistency challenges Norris’s leadership in a tightening F1 title race.
Since the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, McLaren F1 has found itself under the spotlight, with pundits and former drivers weighing in on the growing internal competition between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Piastri has shown strong and consistent form, while Norris has occasionally struggled with confidence and costly errors—especially in qualifying. If this trend continues, McLaren may naturally lean toward backing the Australian as their lead driver.
However, it’s just as likely that Norris bounces back and reignites the debate within the team. If both drivers continue to push each other at the front, McLaren may need to decide whether to let them race freely or step in—especially with someone like Max Verstappen always ready to take advantage of any internal conflict.
Team Principal Andrea Stella recently addressed the situation, suggesting that team orders are on the table but that no decision will be made yet regarding who the team will back for the title.
“Team orders? I can’t rule it out,” Stella said when asked in Miami about the possibility of favoring one driver over the other. “But it’s still too early to decide anything about the title. Having two highly competitive drivers is a big strength for us, and that long-term benefit is something we really value.”
He acknowledged that tensions may arise, especially if one driver feels disadvantaged during a race. “There may be moments where one of them feels frustrated by a decision or how a race plays out,” he admitted.
“We’ve already discussed this internally—not if it happens, but when it happens,” Stella added. “We know how tricky these situations can be, and it’s better to be prepared ahead of time.”
According to Stella, both drivers are fully aware of the possible scenarios. “That won’t eliminate heated moments entirely,” he said, “but it will make acceptance easier when emotions settle.”
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McLaren F1 Open to Team Orders for Norris or Piastri McLaren F1 Open to Team Orders for Norris or Piastri
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