Lewis Hamilton's Five-Word Advice to Oscar Piastri in Title Run-In

As the 2025 Formula 1 season enters its crucial final stages, McLaren's Oscar Piastri finds himself locked in an intense championship battle with teammate Lando Norris. Seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton has offered succinct but critical advice to Piastri: "Don't give up any positions." This counsel comes as Piastri has, at times, conceded track positions to Norris, raising questions about team dynamics and the fight for the Drivers' Championship.

Why it matters:

• The Drivers' Championship is heading into its final stretch, with only 22 points separating Piastri (336 points) and Norris (314 points) across seven wins for Piastri and five for Norris.
• With the Constructors' Championship already secured by McLaren, the focus is now squarely on the individual Drivers' title, suggesting that intra-team strategies might shift to favor individual ambitions.
• Hamilton's advice highlights a critical challenge for Piastri: balancing team orders with personal championship aspirations, a dilemma Hamilton himself faced during his fierce rivalries with Nico Rosberg at Mercedes.

The Details:

• Hamilton's Advice: Ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton was asked for advice for Piastri. Though initially hesitant, he ultimately stated, "Don't give up any places. That's what I'd say." This emphasizes the importance of every point in a tight championship.
• Past Concessions: Piastri has previously ceded positions to Norris, both intentionally and unintentionally, which could prove costly in a close title fight.
  • Italian Grand Prix: Piastri was asked to give up a position he gained over Norris after a slow pit stop for his teammate. Despite questioning the decision, he complied.
  • Singapore Grand Prix: Norris made contact with Piastri while moving up to third place. Piastri acknowledged McLaren's stance on no contact but still conceded the position.
• Championship Experience: Hamilton noted that Piastri is not a novice to championship battles, having competed in various series, implying he has the inherent understanding of what's required.

Looking Ahead:

As the season progresses, Piastri's ability to heed Hamilton's advice and hold his ground against his teammate will be paramount. The dynamic between Piastri and Norris is set to intensify, and every position gained or lost could ultimately decide the championship. The outcome will not only crown a new champion but also set a precedent for McLaren's approach to managing two highly competitive drivers vying for the sport's ultimate prize.