The pursuit of the Formula 1 drivers’ crown underwent a major transformation at the Dutch Grand Prix on Sunday, highlighted by Lando Norris’s unfortunate exit and the consequential gain of 25 points by his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, who emerged victorious in the race.
The difference in points between the two drivers now tallies to 34, as the season advances with nine races left, while the competition is anticipated to intensify.
Considering the circumstances, should McLaren allow its drivers to engage in a completely unrestricted, full-fledged battle until the end of the season? Our writers present their arguments.
Stuart Codling – F1 needs oomph in its narrative
Lando Norris, McLaren, Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Photo by: Joe Portlock / LAT Images via Getty Images
While many might flatly say “no,” my perspective is “yes.” And I’m aware that this isn’t a solitary viewpoint, considering that at least one team principal has proposed to Andrea Stella that encouraging such a dynamic might be beneficial.
Regrettably, Andrea remains unconvinced.
Yet, what F1 currently needs is a surge of dynamism in its storytelling, as it’s evident that Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri aren’t competing intensely on the track. Any aggressive tactics seem to be aimed away from each other. The increased pace both demonstrated towards the conclusion of their second stints during the Dutch GP hinted at the considerable reserve they possess.
The constructors’ championship is practically secured, pending unforeseen mechanical issues. Ferrari and Mercedes seem indifferent about securing second place, and justifiably so. Red Bull Racing remains predominantly a one-driver team and has become less theatrical since Christian Horner’s departure.
If Bernie Ecclestone were still in charge of F1, he would undoubtedly be causing a stir. One could imagine the introduction of double or even triple points at specific races to prevent the final races from turning into dull, inconsequential affairs, almost as if F1 had merged with Scrabble.
As the character portrayed by the late Patrick Swayze in the iconic 1980s film Roadhouse stated: “Be nice, until it’s time to not be nice.”
What F1 requires now is more displays of frustration between teammates in the ‘green room.’ Otherwise, we might as well conclude the season prematurely and dedicate every press conference to discussions about developments for 2026—since that’s the current trajectory.
Oleg Karpov – Jeopardy for McLaren’s successful culture
Lando Norris, McLaren, Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Photo by: Andrea Diodato / NurPhoto via Getty Images
From an outsider’s perspective, particularly for the casual F1 fan without any specific driver allegiances, the primary desire from McLaren would be to witness the team, likely securing their second consecutive constructors’ title, removing any internal limitations on how Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris can compete against each other.
Ideally, the garage would divide into two factions, each devising their strategies independently and simply letting the events unfold, akin to Toto Wolff’s sentiments, expressing regret over his handling of the rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.
From a media standpoint, this approach is highly appealing. It fosters conflict, generating drama, rivalry, and controversy. There is nothing better for show business and entertainment – nor will there ever be. Two sides battling for the ultimate prize is a great promotion for any sporting event.
However, for Andrea Stella, it represents more than just a simple competition between his two drivers. It threatens the very foundation upon which McLaren’s recent successes have been built. The “team first” philosophy—a principle he frequently emphasizes during media interactions—has been crucial to his team’s dominance.
There will inevitably be those who claim to know better, offering advice on managing team dynamics, particularly given Lando Norris’s pursuit of Max Verstappen last year. Similarly, he will encounter numerous opinions on handling the current season, where both Norris and Piastri are competing for the top prize. However, just as he remained committed to McLaren’s fundamental principles then, he must—and will—remain faithful to them now.
Unleashing the drivers will not only create excitement and spectacle but may also negatively affect their relationship. A carefully cultivated dynamic can easily be compromised by increased tension, and the world doesn’t end after 2025, even if it seems far away now. McLaren will need their two drivers to collaborate more effectively than ever in the coming years to continue securing victories for Woking.
The events at Zandvoort likely caused Stella more distress than they did Norris, knowing Stella’s perspective. As a team leader, it’s his duty to ensure equitable treatment for the drivers, giving them equal opportunities in their competition. Last weekend’s occurrences evidently hindered Norris’s chances through no fault of his own.
Yet, this isn’t a valid reason to seek ways to “compensate” him. Notably, it is thanks to McLaren that Norris still has the opportunity to contend for the world championship—a chance supported by the fundamental principles upon which their championship bid is built.
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