Rosberg Critiques McLaren’s Equal Driver Policy: ‘Hurting’ Lando Norris Amidst Internal Team Battles

Nico Rosberg’s opinion on McLaren’s team orders controversy

Nico Rosberg evaluates the competition between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri

Nico Rosberg claims that McLaren’s choice to allow their drivers to compete freely is negatively impacting Lando Norris.

However, he emphasized that Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc clinching the victory at the F1 Italian Grand Prix wasn't solely due to the choices made by McLaren's leadership.

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

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

"Papaya sets the rules for racing, but insists on fair competition," stated Rosberg.

Sources indicate that Lando believed Oscar crossed the line during their contest at Turn 4. He didn't feel the maneuver was entirely fair.

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

"It's quite challenging to handle. It's a delicate balance. You can document those regulations, but did Oscar exceed the boundaries set by the Papaya guidelines?"

"I believe Oscar performed exceptionally well. He vacated the area and executed his tasks brilliantly."

Andrea Stella, the current team principal of McLaren, was employed at Ferrari during the time when Michael Schumacher was the clear top driver.

However, Rosberg asserts that McLaren's unique strategy to provide equal treatment to both drivers is not his doing.

“This philosophy originates from the highest level, specifically from Zak Brown,” he stated.

"We have two top drivers because that's the core principle of McLaren, a tradition that dates back many years. Andrea is putting that strategy into action."

"They believed they had a chance of winning right up until the final moments."

The team allowed their drivers to compete against each other, adding an element of fun and excitement. Ultimately, Ferrari took a gamble with their strategy and outsmarted them.

The team faces a dilemma regarding Lando Norris and the drivers' championship. They have chosen to continue treating both drivers equally, without giving Lando any special priority. While this is their chosen course of action, it is clearly having a negative impact on Lando.

Do McLaren tend to avoid taking risks?

Norris trails Verstappen by 62 points, even though Verstappen remains at the top of the drivers' rankings despite going through a rough patch.

Karun Chandhok stated that in order to compete in the drivers' championship, it's crucial to ensure Lando gets all the points possible.

"On the other hand, they allowed the drivers to compete, which benefits Oscar. He performed excellently and was the quickest McLaren driver today."

"In the long run, it's more advantageous to have Oscar on your side as well."

Rosberg commented that Lando is currently performing exceptionally. He is driving skillfully and his confidence is soaring.

“It’s encouraging for him to sense ‘I have an opportunity’. Despite this, he remains the less favored contender.

"Lando made an error at Turn 4. While he had the inside position and control, he was overly cautious."

Is McLaren overly cautious about taking chances?

In response, Rosberg said, “Were they too cautious? It’s hard to determine. They were taken off guard today. No one could have foreseen that Ferrari's strategy would be successful. I wouldn't make that claim based on today's events.”

“Cautious? They allow their drivers to compete fiercely! They went head-to-head, and Lando nearly lost control during the duel with Oscar.”

Rosberg maintained that McLaren's internal competition during the first lap didn't prevent them from winning the race.

"Not necessarily. Oscar delivered an outstanding performance in the race. They maximized the potential of the car today," he stated.

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