Nico Rosberg Critiques McLaren Team Orders: Is the Equal Status Policy Hurting Lando Norris?

Nico Rosberg’s perspective on the McLaren team orders controversy

Nico Rosberg evaluates the Lando Norris versus Oscar Piastri clash

Nico Rosberg asserts that McLaren allowing their drivers to compete against each other is "damaging" Lando Norris.

However, he maintained that Ferrari's Charles Leclerc's victory at the F1 Italian Grand Prix was not necessarily due to the choices made by McLaren's management.

Norris began the race in the lead position, but his teammate Oscar Piastri passed him during the first lap, putting Norris at a disadvantage. He was unable to regain the lead and ultimately missed an opportunity to significantly challenge Max Verstappen in the drivers' championship standings.

Former Formula 1 champion Rosberg discussed McLaren's strategy of treating both drivers equally during his analysis for Sky Sports.

"Papaya sets the standards for racing, but it's important to race fairly," stated Rosberg.

Sources indicate that Lando believed Oscar exceeded the boundaries during their contest at Turn 4. He felt that the maneuver was not entirely fair.

"Intense debates are expected inside the McLaren team’s motorhome."

"It's really challenging to control. It's a delicate balance. You can document those guidelines, but did Oscar exceed the boundaries according to the Papaya rules?"

“I believe Oscar performed excellently. He vacated the area and executed his tasks superbly.”

Andrea Stella, who is currently the team principal at McLaren, was part of the Ferrari team during the period when Michael Schumacher was the clear top driver.

However, Rosberg asserts that McLaren's intriguing approach of providing equal treatment to both drivers is not his doing.

“This approach originates from the highest level. It is introduced by Zak Brown,” he stated.

"We consider both of our drivers as top-tier, which is a fundamental principle of McLaren's longstanding tradition. Andrea is currently implementing this strategy."

“They believed they had a chance to win until the final moments.”

"The team allowed their drivers to compete against each other, making the race thrilling and enjoyable. Ultimately, Ferrari took a gamble with their strategy and outmaneuvered them."

The situation revolves around Lando and the drivers' championship. The team has chosen to continue treating both drivers as equals, without giving Lando any special priority. While this is their choice, it is clearly having a negative impact on Lando.

Are McLaren playing it safe?

Norris trails Verstappen by 62 points, even though Verstappen remains at the top of the drivers’ standings despite a streak of poor performance.

Karun Chandhok mentioned that to compete for the drivers' championship, they must ensure Lando receives all possible points.

"Conversely, they've allowed the drivers to compete freely, which benefits Oscar. He had an outstanding performance and was the quickest McLaren driver today."

“In the long run, it is more beneficial to have Oscar on your team.”

Rosberg commented, "Lando is in excellent form right now. He's performing exceptionally, and his confidence is soaring."

"It's inspiring that he senses 'I have an opportunity.' He remains the less favored contender."

"Lando made an error at Turn 4. Positioned on the inside, he had the situation under control but acted too cautiously."

Is McLaren overly cautious about taking chances?

Rosberg responded, "Were they too cautious? It's hard to determine. They were unexpectedly caught off guard today. No one could have foreseen Ferrari's strategy succeeding. I wouldn't say that, at least not based on today."

"Risk averse? They allow their drivers to fiercely compete! They went side by side, and Lando nearly lost control during the duel with Oscar."

Rosberg emphasized that the McLarens' skirmish on the first lap did not prevent them from winning the race.

"Not necessarily. Oscar had an excellent race. They performed at their highest level with the car they had today," he stated.

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