McLaren is set to make a crucial decision this summer on whether to prioritize Lando Norris in the F1 drivers’ championship battle.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, revealed the team’s intention to discuss Norris’s position during the summer break. This decision follows a controversial move during the Hungarian Grand Prix where Norris was ordered to let his teammate Oscar Piastri pass, costing Norris valuable points.
Norris’s frustration was palpable after the race. Under orders from his race engineer, Norris ceded his position to Piastri, who went on to win. This decision denied Norris the chance to significantly cut down Max Verstappen’s lead in the championship.
Brown stated that discussions regarding the team’s strategy will take place during the enforced summer shutdown. Team Principal Andrea Stella will play a crucial role in determining whether to back Norris in the latter half of the campaign.
“That’s ultimately going to be Andrea’s call,” Brown told Sky Sports. He emphasized the importance of assessing the first half of the season to make an informed decision. Despite the challenge posed by Verstappen’s consistent top finishes, Brown remains optimistic about the constructors’ championship.
Brown, who wasn’t present in Hungary, wasn’t surprised by Norris’s compliance with team orders. He admitted the timing of the swap could have been better to avoid last-minute tension. “Part of me was actually happy they didn’t race because that would have been 21 laps of me biting my nails!” Brown remarked.
The decision to prioritize Norris over Piastri could be pivotal for McLaren’s season. As the summer break approaches, all eyes will be on McLaren’s strategy and how it will impact the championship standings.
With the summer break looming, McLaren’s decision on Norris’s status could define their season. The team’s upcoming discussions will be crucial in shaping their strategy for the championship battle.
