Piastri on Potential McLaren Team Orders in Abu Dhabi Decider

Oscar Piastri acknowledges that a potential McLaren team order to aid Lando Norris in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix F1 title fight would be "not the easiest decision for anybody." Norris enters Sunday's finale 12 points ahead of Max Verstappen, with Piastri a further four points back. Norris needs a top-three finish to secure the championship.Piastri's already slim title hopes took another hit in qualifying, as he placed third behind pole-sitter Verstappen and Norris.

Why it matters:

• McLaren is in a rare position with two drivers contending for the F1 world championship, creating a complex dynamic for team strategy in the season's final race.
• The decision on implementing team orders could significantly impact the championship outcome and the long-term relationship between Piastri and Norris.
• How McLaren manages this situation will be a critical test of their team cohesion and championship aspirations for future seasons.

The Details:

• McLaren chief executive Zak Brown confirmed to Sky Sports F1 that the team is prepared to implement team orders if Piastri's title hopes are mathematically over, but he could help Norris secure the championship.
• Piastri stated that discussions are still ongoing and no direct orders have been given yet, as he is technically still in contention until Norris or Verstappen cross the finish line ahead of him.
• He also acknowledged the importance of considering the "bigger long-term picture" for team relations, particularly heading into the 2026 season with new regulations.
• Piastri, starting third, admits his best chance might involve observing the battle between Verstappen and Norris at the start, hinting at a cautious approach.
• Team principal Andrea Stella expects a "complex race" but emphasized the priority of ensuring both drivers retain their "options and possibilities" for the title, despite Verstappen taking pole position.
• Stella praised the close performance between Piastri and Norris throughout the season, calling it "symbolic" of their consistent competitiveness.
• The chief threats from behind are Mercedes' George Russell (fourth) and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc (fifth), who could further complicate the race by breaking into the top three.

What's next:

• The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday will determine the 2025 Formula 1 world champion, with all eyes on how McLaren manages its two title-contending drivers.
• The execution of any team orders, or the lack thereof, will be a major talking point and could define the narrative of McLaren's season and the future dynamics within the team.
• The outcome will not only crown a champion but also set the tone for McLaren's approach to driver management and championship bids in the years to come.