McLaren Will Not Favor a Driver in potential F1 Title Battle with Verstappen
Austin, Texas – October 21, 2023 - Despite Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri demonstrating increasingly competitive pace that positions them as potential challengers to Max Verstappen’s dominance, McLaren will not prioritize one driver in a Formula 1 World Championship fight. Team Principal Andrea Stella affirmed the team’s commitment to a policy of equal chance, even as the gap to verstappen narrows.
The decision comes amid a remarkable mid-season turnaround for McLaren, fueled by meaningful upgrades to the MCL60. norris secured sprint race pole position at the United States Grand Prix on October 21, narrowly beating Verstappen, signaling the team’s growing threat. While acknowledging the intensifying competition, stella emphasized that McLaren’s beliefs centers on maximizing collective performance, not designating a lead driver. This stance is notably relevant as both Norris and Piastri are considered capable of contending for the championship in future seasons.
“We are very fortunate to have two highly talented drivers,” Stella stated. “At this stage,it’s important for us to allow them to race each other and to develop as individuals.We believe that the best outcome for the team will come from having both drivers performing at their best,and we won’t interfere with that.”
The commitment to equality stems from a belief that internal competition drives innovation and advancement. mclaren’s recent success is attributed, in part, to the collaborative environment fostered between Norris and piastri. The team recognizes that a harmonious working relationship between its drivers is crucial for sustained success.
Verstappen currently leads the 2023 World Championship standings with Red Bull Racing, but McLaren’s recent form suggests a more competitive landscape in 2024. The team’s ability to consistently challenge Red Bull will depend on continued advancement and the drivers’ capacity to capitalize on opportunities.
McLaren last won a Formula 1 World Championship with lewis Hamilton in 2008. The team is investing heavily in its infrastructure and personnel to return to championship-winning form, and maintaining a fair and competitive environment for its drivers is seen as a key component of that strategy.