Norris and Piastri Address Verstappen Threat After Las Vegas Disqualification
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are now facing an intensified challenge from Max Verstappen after their disqualification at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Despite Piastri's closer proximity to Norris in the standings, the McLaren duo views Verstappen, now just 24 points behind Norris, as a significant and equal threat, with McLaren confirming no team orders for the final races.
Lando Norris now views Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri as 'equal threats' following his and Piastri's disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Piastri, despite being closer to the top of the standings, considers the outcome a 'net negative' due to Verstappen gaining significant ground in the championship.
Why it matters:
The disqualification of both McLaren drivers in Las Vegas for excessive plank wear has significantly tightened the championship battle. With Verstappen gaining 25 points on each, the final two race weekends are set to be a high-stakes affair, impacting McLaren's title aspirations and the individual championship hopes of Norris and Piastri.
The details:
- Las Vegas Disqualification: Both Norris and Piastri were disqualified from their second and fourth-place finishes in Las Vegas due to their cars failing post-race inspections for excessive plank wear.
- Championship Impact: This resulted in Verstappen gaining a full 25 points on both McLaren drivers, bringing him within 24 points of championship leader Norris and level with Piastri on points (ahead on countback).
- Norris's Perspective: Despite the setback, Norris maintains that his approach hasn't changed. He views both Verstappen and Piastri as 'equal threats,' acknowledging Red Bull's recent pace and expecting strong performances from both in the upcoming races.
- He emphasized that Piastri is 'capable of exactly the same as what Max can do,' highlighting the competitive spirit between the two McLaren teammates.
- Piastri's Perspective: Piastri described the disqualification as a 'net negative,' despite it keeping him closer to Norris in the standings. He noted that it has brought Max 'much closer into the fight' for the championship.
- Team Strategy: McLaren has confirmed there will be no team orders, allowing Piastri to continue fighting for his own championship aspirations. Piastri stated, 'I'm still equal on points with Max and I've got a decent shot of still winning it if things go my way.'
What's next:
With the championship battle intensely close, the focus now shifts to the remaining two race weekends. McLaren's decision to allow both drivers to compete freely underscores their belief in both Norris and Piastri's individual chances. The upcoming races will be crucial in determining whether McLaren can overcome the challenge from Verstappen and Red Bull, and if either Norris or Piastri can secure a maiden world title under immense pressure.