McLaren Sets Clear Racing Boundaries for Norris and Piastri in F1 Battle
McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri understand the boundaries of their on-track rivalry ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, where they'll start from the front row after qualifying over 0.3s ahead of Max Verstappen.
The teammates have discussed racing guidelines over the winter, with both drivers clear on expectations while battling each other. "We're free to race, we're free to try and win races," Norris explained, emphasizing that avoiding contact and giving extra space are key priorities.
Two F1 drivers in racing suits
Piastri, aiming to become the first Australian to win his home grand prix, echoed these sentiments: "The number one rule is to have no contact and to give each other space." He emphasized that their successful teamwork contributed to McLaren's constructors' championship victory last year.
Team principal Andrea Stella revealed that rather than specific rules, McLaren has established general principles for driver interaction. Reflecting on last year's experiences, including lessons learned from incidents like Monza, Stella praised the drivers' typically positive cooperation while emphasizing that team interests remain paramount.
The constructive relationship between Norris and Piastri proved crucial in McLaren's success last season, with both drivers committed to maintaining this balance between competition and collaboration as they pursue victory in Australia.