McLaren Blames Hulkenberg for 'Amateur Hour' Sprint Clash

McLaren CEO Zak Brown vehemently defended his drivers after a multi-car collision at the start of the United States Grand Prix sprint race, pinning the blame squarely on Nico Hulkenberg's "amateur hour" driving. The incident saw both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri involved, though Brown insists neither McLaren driver was at fault.

Why it matters:

Sprint races are often chaotic, but this particular incident at the Circuit of the Americas highlighted the fine line between aggressive racing and avoidable contact. For McLaren, having both cars damaged in a sprint event, where points are crucial, is a significant setback, especially as they are battling for P4 in the Constructors' Championship.

The details:

• The Incident: On the opening lap of the sprint, Lando Norris, after a slow start, dived inside Oscar Piastri at Turn 1 in a battle for second place. Piastri attempted a cut-back on the exit to regain the position but collided with Nico Hulkenberg's Sauber.
• Stewards' Decision: Race stewards quickly reviewed the incident and determined that no further action was required, implying it was a racing incident.
• Zak Brown's Reaction: Speaking to Sky Sports F1 immediately after the crash, Brown expressed his frustration:
  • "Yeah, that was terrible. Neither of our drivers to blame there, some amateur hour driving from some drivers up there at the front, wiped [out] our two guys."
  • When asked to confirm if his 'amateur hour' comment was aimed solely at Hulkenberg, Brown clarified: "Err, I want to see the replay again, but clearly Nico drove into Oscar and he had no business being where he was, went into his left rear tyre."
• McLaren's Position: Brown's strong defense underscores McLaren's belief that their drivers were not responsible for the contact, despite the stewards' no-fault ruling. This suggests a potential disagreement with the official verdict from the team's perspective.

Between the lines:

Brown's blunt assessment of "amateur hour driving" is a rare direct criticism from a team principal aimed at another driver post-incident, especially when stewards have already made a call. This indicates the depth of his frustration, likely stemming from the damage incurred to both cars and the lost opportunity for points in the sprint race. It also highlights the intense pressure and competitive spirit among teams, where every point and every position counts, especially in a closely contested season.

What's next:

While the stewards have closed the book on this particular incident, the 'amateur hour' comment might linger. Teams often review such incidents internally and drivers might address it in subsequent briefings or races, but for McLaren, the immediate focus will be on repairs and ensuring both cars are in prime condition for the main Grand Prix, aiming to recover lost ground and points from the sprint setback.