Verstappen Mocks McLaren’s Strategy at Monza
In the Italian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen, as he approached victory, couldn’t help but laugh as he observed the situation of the orange McLaren cars that were following him. The McLaren team’s decision to swap the positions of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri provoked the hilarity of the Red Bull driver.The situation, which unfolded during McLaren’s pit stops, was notable. Verstappen, stopping earlier, conceded track position. McLaren opted for a risky strategy, seeking to capitalize on a possible Safety Car. Piastri’s stop was quick, but Norris’s resulted in a delay that put him behind his teammate. McLaren intervened, requesting that Piastri yield position to Norris in the name of fairness. Piastri, although with some reluctance, complied. Norris regained second place, reducing his lead in the championship. Verstappen’s reaction, who was leading the race, was clear: it wasn’t his problem. Verstappen and Red Bull contrast with McLaren, who have tried to maintain equality between their drivers, Norris and Piastri, who have starred in an intense battle for the title. The image of McLaren is Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, who have maintained a good relationship. McLaren’s decision, although driven by fairness, could be detrimental in the fight for the championship. The team risks being limited by its insistence on justice. Sunday’s team order and Piastri’s decision to comply have complicated the team’s situation. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella emphasized the importance of prioritizing the team’s interests. The situation raises questions about who decides what is fair and the criteria used. The proximity of the end of the championship will intensify the debate about these decisions. Toto Wolff, who managed the rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, suggests that McLaren has opened a Pandora’s box. The situation could set precedents that are difficult to manage. McLaren’s drivers have expressed their opinion on how the team should act in similar situations in the future. Piastri highlighted the importance of the situation they were in, and that if there were no other cars involved, the decision would have been simpler. McLaren will review the last laps in Monza before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. No change of approach is expected from the team, as they remain firm in their principles.Ha! Just because [Norris] had a slow stop?
Max Verstappen
