Verstappen Dominates Italian GP as McLaren Implements Team Orders for Norris and Piastri

Max Verstappen secured his third victory of the season at the Italian Grand Prix, converting pole position into a dominant win. The race's most notable moment, however, was McLaren's controversial team order for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Why it matters

Verstappen's win reinforced his championship lead. McLaren's decision to swap Norris and Piastri after a pit stop issue sparked debate, directly affecting the podium. Ferrari failed to secure a home podium.

The big picture

Verstappen largely controlled the 53-lap race, overcoming an early challenge from Norris. The McLaren drivers showed strong pace, but a strategic team call decided their final positions. Incidents in the midfield also shaped the results.

The details

• Early Race: Norris briefly led after the start, pushing Verstappen wide. Verstappen briefly ceded the position, then regained the lead on lap four. Piastri and Charles Leclerc also had an early battle for third.
• Key Incidents: Fernando Alonso retired on lap 25 due to suspension failure. Carlos Sainz and Oliver Bearman collided at Turn 4.
• McLaren's Swap: During pit stops, Oscar Piastri completed a fast stop. Lando Norris, however, had a slow stop due to a wheel gun issue, emerging behind Piastri. McLaren then ordered the drivers to switch positions, reinstating Norris in second place.
• Points Finishers: Verstappen, Norris, Piastri took the podium. Leclerc (4th), Russell (5th), Hamilton (6th), Albon (7th), Bortoleto (8th, benefiting from Kimi Antonelli's penalty), and Isack Hadjar (10th) completed the points.

What's next

McLaren's team order decision is set to be a significant talking point, highlighting the ongoing tension between driver competition and team strategy in Formula 1.