McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has revealed that the relationship between drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris has surprisingly continued to improve, even amidst their intense battle for the Formula 1 title.
Why it matters
Unlike typical intra-team championship fights that often lead to heightened tension, Piastri and Norris's close contest has not strained their working relationship. This positive dynamic is a testament to McLaren's strategic investment in team cohesion.
The context
- The duo has been remarkably close throughout the 14 rounds of the season, with Piastri currently holding a narrow nine-point lead in the drivers' championship.
- Both drivers are vying for their maiden F1 titles.
- A singular collision at the Canadian Grand Prix was quickly resolved after Norris admitted fault, marking the only on-track incident between them.
The big picture
Stella emphasized that the ongoing improvement in their relationship is not accidental but a result of deliberate investment. He likened the importance of strong relationships within F1 to fundamental aspects like aerodynamics, highlighting their crucial role in team performance and stability.
What's next
The 2024 Hungarian Grand Prix, where Piastri secured his first win and Norris ceded position after team order discussions, served as a crucial learning experience. Stella views such incidents as opportunities for the team to strengthen itself. He praised both drivers for being "very reasonable, very fair, very correct, humble," and for understanding the importance of protecting both the team's interests and their own long-term careers with McLaren Racing.