F1
**Nico Rosberg Criticizes McLaren’s Equal Treatment Strategy as Hurting Lando Norris in Championship Battle**
Nico Rosberg weighs in on the controversy over McLaren's team orders
Nico Rosberg evaluates the rivalry between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
Nico Rosberg asserts that McLaren's choice to allow their drivers to compete against each other is detrimental to Lando Norris.
However, he maintained that Ferrari's Charles Leclerc’s victory at the F1 Italian Grand Prix wasn't solely due to choices made by McLaren's leadership.
Norris began the race in the lead position but was quickly passed by his teammate Oscar Piastri during the first lap, which left him at a disadvantage. As a result, Norris was unable to regain his position and missed an opportunity to significantly challenge Max Verstappen in the drivers' championship.
Former Formula 1 champion Nico Rosberg shared his thoughts on McLaren's strategy of treating both drivers equally, during an analysis for Sky Sports.
"Papaya sets the standards for racing, but make sure to race fairly," Rosberg stated.
"We're getting reports that Lando believed Oscar exceeded the boundaries during their duel at Turn 4. It seems he felt the move wasn't entirely fair."
"Intense debates are expected to take place within the McLaren team headquarters."
"It's quite challenging to handle. It's a delicate balance. You can document those guidelines, but did Oscar exceed the boundaries set by the Papaya regulations?"
"I believe Oscar performed excellently. He vacated the area and executed his task superbly."
Andrea Stella, the principal of the McLaren team, was employed at Ferrari during the period when Michael Schumacher was the clear top driver.
However, Rosberg asserts that McLaren's intriguing strategy of giving equal treatment to both drivers is not influenced by him.
"This approach is mandated by the highest authority, originating from Zak Brown," he stated.
"We have two top-tier drivers, as this is a fundamental principle of McLaren that has been in place for many years. Andrea is implementing this strategy."
“They believed they had a chance to win right up until the final moment.
"The drivers were allowed to compete against each other, creating an entertaining and thrilling atmosphere. Ultimately, Ferrari took a risk with their plan, which paid off and surprised everyone."
"There’s an issue concerning Lando and the drivers' championship. The decision was made to continue treating both drivers equally, without giving Lando any special preference. While that’s their choice, it’s clear that Lando is being negatively affected by it."
Is McLaren unwilling to take risks?
Norris trails Verstappen by 62 points, even though Verstappen tops the drivers' standings despite experiencing a slump in performance.
Karun Chandhok mentioned that to compete for the drivers’ championship, it's essential to ensure Lando receives every possible point.
"Conversely, allowing them to compete has benefited Oscar. He delivered an outstanding performance and was the quickest McLaren driver today."
“In the long run, it’s more advantageous to have Oscar supporting you.”
Rosberg commented, "Lando is in great form. He's performing excellently and his confidence is soaring."
"It's encouraging that he senses 'I have an opportunity'. He remains the less favored competitor."
"Lando made an error at Turn 4. Positioned on the inside, he had the situation under control but acted too cautiously."
Is McLaren too cautious about taking chances?
Rosberg responded: "It's hard to determine if they were too risk-averse. They were taken by surprise today. It was unpredictable that Ferrari's strategy would succeed. Based on today's events, I wouldn't say so."
"Cautious? Not at all! The drivers were allowed to fiercely compete, going side by side, and Lando nearly lost control during his clash with Oscar."
Rosberg asserted that the Lap 1 skirmish involving the McLaren drivers did not prevent them from winning the race.
"Not necessarily. Oscar put in an amazing performance. They maximized the potential of the car today," he commented.
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