Piastri Affirms 'Better Than Ever' Relationship with Norris Amidst Fierce Title Fight
Oscar Piastri insists his relationship with McLaren teammate Lando Norris is 'better than ever,' even as they are locked in a fierce battle for their first Formula 1 drivers' championship. Piastri credits their growing familiarity and shared professionalism for the strong bond, despite the intense on-track rivalry. With McLaren maintaining a 'may the best man win' policy, their ability to keep incidents on track will be critical as the 2025 season heads towards a thrilling conclusion.
Oscar Piastri insists his partnership with McLaren teammate Lando Norris is "probably better than it has been," even as they battle for their maiden F1 drivers' championship. With three rounds remaining in the 2025 season, Norris holds a 24-point lead over Piastri, with Max Verstappen just one point behind Piastri.
Why it matters:
This close championship battle between teammates could strain relationships, but Piastri's comments suggest McLaren's 'may the best man win' approach is fostering a healthy, competitive environment. A strong internal dynamic is crucial for McLaren's overall success, especially as they contend with Red Bull for the Constructors' title.
The Details:
- Championship Standings: Lando Norris leads the 2025 championship with 24 points over Oscar Piastri. Max Verstappen is in third, only 25 points behind Piastri.
- McLaren's Stance: McLaren has consistently maintained a neutral 'may the best man win' policy, avoiding driver preference even if it risks losing out to competitors like Verstappen.
- On-Track Conduct: The only condition set by McLaren is that both drivers maintain clean racing. While mostly adhered to, there have been a few notable exceptions, such as incidents at the Canadian and Singapore Grands Prix.
- Piastri's Perspective: Speaking on the Beyond The Grid podcast, Piastri noted their relationship is "exactly the same, or honestly, probably better than it has been." He attributes this to their increasing familiarity after three years as teammates.
- Professionalism: Piastri emphasized that both he and Norris believe in leaving on-track incidents on the track. "Maybe there are short-lived emotions off the track, but we’re both quite good at letting things die down and, again, leaving things on the track."
- Team Collaboration: Piastri also confirmed that their approach to maximizing the team's performance remains unchanged, indicating continued collaboration despite individual title aspirations.
- Recent Performance: A recent surge in strong performances has seen Norris overtake Piastri in the standings, with Piastri's last podium finish being at the Italian Grand Prix.
What's next:
With only three races and one sprint remaining, the title fight is set to intensify. The sustained positive relationship between Piastri and Norris will be crucial in McLaren's bid for the Constructors' Championship, while their individual battle for the Drivers' title will undoubtedly provide thrilling action right down to the wire. The ability of both drivers to maintain their professional bond will be key to McLaren's overall success in what promises to be a dramatic conclusion to the season.