Piastri acknowledges McLaren's team orders ahead of title-deciding Abu Dhabi GP

Oscar Piastri smiled and confirmed he and Lando Norris are aware of McLaren's potential team orders heading into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a race that will decide the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship between the two McLaren drivers and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

The season finale presents a rare and dramatic scenario where a team must balance the championship aspirations of both its drivers against the threat of a rival. McLaren's first drivers' title since 2008 is on the line, but so is the potential for internal conflict if strategic team orders are required to maximize the team's chances against Verstappen.

The details:

• The championship is a three-way fight. Norris leads with 408 points, Verstappen is second, and Piastri retains a mathematical, albeit slim, chance.
• Norris can clinch the title with a podium finish. If Verstappen wins the race and Norris finishes off the podium, the Dutchman would claim his fifth consecutive world title in a historic comeback.
• During the drivers' parade, when asked by Jolyon Palmer if he knew about potential team orders, Piastri gave a tight-lipped response: "Yes, I do." He declined to offer any hints on what those orders might be.
• The situation revives the concept of "papaya rules," where one McLaren driver might be asked to assist the other to secure the championship for the team.

Between the lines:

Despite the immense pressure, all three title contenders appeared relaxed and jovial in the final moments before the race. Verstappen and Norris shared jokes during an interview, with Verstappen quipping about a "forced" handshake between the rivals. This demeanor suggests a mutual respect and an understanding that, regardless of team tactics, their destiny will ultimately be settled on track over 58 laps at Yas Marina.

What's next:

The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion. All eyes will be on the McLaren garage to see if and when team instructions are radioed through. The race will not only crown a world champion but also test the dynamics within the McLaren team and define the legacy of the 2025 season.