McLaren ready to use team orders in Abu Dhabi GP
What's the story
Forumula 1 side McLaren are willing to use team orders in the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, if Oscar Piastri can't win the championship. The move is aimed at supporting Lando Norris's title bid. Despite their open competition philosophy this season, with both drivers given equal chances at winning their first title, McLaren may change course if circumstances demand it. Here are further details.
Title race
Norris leads Piastri by 16 points
Norris enjoys a 16-point lead over his teammate Piastri as they head into the season's final race at Yas Marina. Red Bull Racing's Max Verstappen is also in the mix, sitting 12 points behind Norris. McLaren CEO Zak Brown told reporters, "As long as both drivers have the chance to win the title, then it's business as usual and they're free to race."
Championship strategy
McLaren's strategy for drivers' championship
Brown added, "If as the race plays out, it becomes clear that both can't, we will do what we can to make sure the team wins the drivers' championship." He stressed that they wouldn't risk a drivers' championship over minor positions if one of their drivers doesn't have an opportunity. This suggests a tactical approach from McLaren in the final race of the season.
Possible scenarios
Scenarios where Piastri could help Norris
As per BBC Sport, there are several situations where Piastri could give way to Norris, potentially keeping Verstappen from winning the title. One such scenario is if Verstappen is leading the race, Piastri is in the top three, and Norris sits fourth. In this case, McLaren would likely ask Piastri to let Norris through for a better shot at clinching the championship.
Driver compliance
Brown confident in drivers' compliance
Brown is confident that Piastri would comply with such a request from the team. He said, "Our drivers have always complied with team wishes just as we comply with their wishes." However, Norris has said he wouldn't make the request himself "because I don't think it's necessarily a fair question." This shows some reluctance on his part to use team orders for his benefit.
Information
A look at the Championship standings after Qatar GP
After the Qatar GP main race, Norris leads the show with 408 points. Meanwhile, Verstappen steered clear of Piastri and is 2nd. He has raced to 396 points and is 12 behind Norris. Meanwhile, Piastri has dropped to third. He has 392 points.