Norris Won't Ask Piastri for Title Help: 'It's Not Really Up to Me'

Lando Norris, on the brink of his first Formula 1 world championship, states he won't ask McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri for help if the Abu Dhabi GP requires tactical team orders. While leading the points into the season finale, Norris maintains that any team directives must originate from the team, not from him.

Why it matters:

This stance highlights Norris's unique approach to a championship fight, prioritizing fair play and team harmony over direct intervention, even with a title on the line. His philosophical view contrasts with typical championship contenders, providing insight into his character and McLaren's team dynamics as they navigate a high-stakes finale against Max Verstappen.

The details:

• Norris heads into Yas Marina with a 16-point lead over Piastri, with Max Verstappen positioned between them, 12 points behind Norris.
• McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has resisted designating Piastri as a support driver but acknowledged the team might reconsider during the race if the title fight necessitates it.
• Norris's Stance on Team Orders: When asked about theoretically swapping positions with Piastri, Norris stated, "No, [it's] not been discussed. Honestly, I mean, I would love it. But I don't think I would ask it. It's up to Oscar if he would allow it. I don't think it's necessarily down to me."
  • He added, "I'm not going to ask it. I don't want to ask it because I don't think it's necessarily a fair question."
• Perspective on Losing: Norris maintains a laid-back and philosophical outlook on the championship, stating that if he loses, "It will hurt probably for a little while, but then that's life. I'll crack on and try and do better next season."
  • He also expressed a "nothing to lose" mentality, believing that in 30 years, the outcome won't matter as much.

Between the lines:

Norris's unusual laid-back approach to a championship fight, even after missing a chance to clinch the title in Qatar, suggests a strategy to manage pressure. By externalizing the decision for team orders and maintaining a philosophical view on winning or losing, he might be trying to keep himself mentally free from the immense pressure that comes with a title decider.

What's next:

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will determine the 2024 Formula 1 World Champion. While team orders might be a factor, Norris's public position indicates he won't initiate them. The outcome will depend on McLaren's team strategy and the performance of all three contenders.

• If the title slips away due to a lack of team intervention, it will reflect Norris's character and potentially set a precedent for future team dynamics at McLaren.
• His calm demeanor suggests he is already preparing mentally for either outcome, focusing on continuous improvement regardless of the final result this season.