McLaren’s No1 Dilemma: Rosberg Weighs in on Team Orders Amid Norris-Piastri Rivalry

Oscar Piastri holds a primary driver contract without any obligation to assist Lando Norris, as examined by Nico Rosberg in the discussion on McLaren team orders.

Nico Rosberg has cautioned that future team directives from McLaren will present a significant challenge.

At last weekend's Italian Grand Prix in Formula 1, McLaren faced criticism for not giving preferential treatment to either Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri, a policy known as the ‘papaya rules’.

Norris and Piastri competed for a spot during the initial lap, but in the end, it was Charles Leclerc from Ferrari who clinched the victory at Monza.

McLaren has suggested they may review their team orders as the competition for the drivers' and constructors' championships intensifies.

Norris trails Max Verstappen by 62 points in the drivers' rankings, while McLaren is only eight points behind Red Bull in the constructors' competition.

During an interview on the Sky F1 podcast, Rosberg expressed that Lando wants to achieve race victories through his own efforts rather than relying on assistance from his teammate.

"Take Turn 4, for instance. You wouldn't interpret it as assistance from your teammate if the team instructed you to 'stay calm and maintain your position to keep the Ferraris at bay.'"

Rosberg commented, “It’s tough for Oscar. He’s bound by a No. 1 contract.

“There’s nothing in his contract that states he must assist Lando.”

"He's performing exceptionally well behind the wheel. He definitely deserves every chance to secure race victories."

"From a mathematical standpoint, he remains in contention for the world championship. His point deficit to Lando isn't substantial."

"It might be a big challenge for Oscar to consider giving up potential race victories."

McLaren's recent strategies seem contrary to their usual approach.

This season, Norris secured victories in Miami and the Netherlands, while Piastri claimed a win in Hungary.

During the Hungary race, McLaren instructed Norris, who was in the lead, to let his teammate Piastri pass. Norris ultimately followed the directive.

Rosberg was questioned about the reason behind McLaren's need to reassess their strategy halfway through the season. He explained, "This scenario is completely unforeseen for them. Their fundamental approach has always been to compete with two top drivers who have the same chances."

"They were completely unprepared for this situation. It's a significant learning experience for them."

"It's important to consider this carefully and determine the most effective strategy."

"It contradicts their fundamental approach of having two top-tier drivers with equal chances."

Rosberg asserted that McLaren could not have anticipated Norris and Piastri being in such close competition with Verstappen in the drivers' rankings.

He explained that the team couldn't alter their approach to team orders earlier due to their rapid improvement in performance.

"Perhaps it was premature since no one believed Lando had a genuine shot at winning the championship," he remarked.

"Absolutely, it’s evident now. They are the leading contenders for the constructors’ championship, and winning the drivers’ championship is a strong possibility."

"Andrea Stella and Zak Brown are evidently beginning to consider it seriously."

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