McLaren: Norris’ failure in Dutch GP, chassis problem

McLaren has identified the cause of the failure that forced Lando Norris to retire from the Dutch Grand Prix. The problem, which caused smoke in the cockpit and at the rear of the single-seater, originated in the chassis and not in the Mercedes engine of the vehicle. Norris, who was in second position, had to retire seven laps from the end in Zandvoort, which affected his championship aspirations. His teammate, Oscar Piastri, benefited from the situation, securing the maximum points.

Chassis Problems

In a statement, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella reported that the problem was located in the chassis. “We have identified a problem on the chassis side, and we will do a complete review before competing again in Monza,” Stella declared. This is the first technical problem the team has faced after a period of impeccable reliability. Norris is now 34 points behind Piastri in the drivers’ standings, with nine races remaining to finish the season.

Reliability has been a strong point at McLaren for a long time, today we have had what seems to be a technical reliability problem, which is always disappointing.

Andrea Stella

Stella regretted that the problem affected the fight for the championship between her drivers. However, she trusts that Norris will use this setback as motivation.

Stella hopes to see an improved version of Norris in the upcoming races, considering it an opportunity for the driver to demonstrate his full potential. Piastri, for his part, although with a points advantage, does not feel comfortable and knows that the situation can change quickly.

There’s still a long way to go. I need to keep pushing and trying to win races. I wouldn’t say it’s a very comfortable margin.

Oscar Piastri

The Australian is aware that, as seen in the race, a retirement can change the situation in the championship.