Rosberg Critiques McLaren’s Equal Driver Policy: ‘Hurting Norris in Championship Battle

Nico Rosberg's Opinion on McLaren's Team Orders Controversy

Nico Rosberg Analyzes the Rivalry Between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri

Nico Rosberg claims that McLaren's choice to allow their drivers to compete freely is "damaging" Lando Norris.

However, he emphasized that Ferrari's driver, Charles Leclerc, winning the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix was not inevitably due to the choices made by McLaren's leadership.

Norris began the race in the lead but was quickly passed by his teammate Oscar Piastri during the first lap, which set him back. He was unable to regain his position and missed the opportunity to make a significant impact on Max Verstappen's lead in the drivers' championship.

Former Formula 1 champion Rosberg provided an analysis on McLaren's strategy of treating both drivers equally during an interview with Sky Sports.

“Papaya's principle is to compete, but to do so with fairness,” Rosberg stated.

According to reports, Lando felt that Oscar crossed the line during their fight at Turn 4. He believed it wasn't a fair move.

"Intense debates are expected to take place in McLaren's team headquarters."

"It's challenging to oversee. It's a delicate balance. You can put those guidelines in writing, but did Oscar exceed the boundaries set by the Papaya rules?"

"Oscar did an excellent job. He vacated the area and performed remarkably well."

Andrea Stella, who now leads the McLaren team, previously worked at Ferrari during the time when Michael Schumacher was the clear top driver.

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

"The philosophy originates from the highest level, specifically from Zak Brown," he stated.

"We consider both of our drivers as equals, a fundamental principle at McLaren that dates back many years. Andrea is currently implementing this strategy."

“They believed they had a chance at victory until the final moments.

"The team allowed their drivers to compete freely, creating an entertaining and thrilling experience. Ultimately, Ferrari took a gamble with their strategy, which proved to be successful."

The situation with Lando and the drivers' championship is under question. The team has chosen to continue treating both drivers as equals instead of prioritizing Lando. While that's their decision, it is certainly affecting Lando negatively.

Are McLaren cautious when it comes to taking risks?

Norris trails Verstappen by 62 points, who remains at the top of the drivers’ championship even after a series of poor performances.

Karun Chandhok mentioned that in order to compete in the drivers' championship, they must ensure Lando gets all the points possible.

"Conversely, allowing the drivers to compete freely benefits Oscar. He performed excellently and was the quickest McLaren driver today."

"In the long run, it is more advantageous to have Oscar as an ally."

Rosberg commented: "Lando is performing exceptionally. His driving skills are impressive, and his confidence is soaring."

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

"Lando made an error at Turn 4. Being on the inside, he was in control but acted too cautiously."

Is McLaren overly cautious about taking chances?

In response, Rosberg said, "It's hard to determine if they were too cautious. They were taken by surprise today. No one could have foreseen that Ferrari's strategy would be successful. I wouldn't call it that based on today's events."

"Avoiding risk? Not at all! The drivers were allowed to fiercely compete against each other, going head-to-head, with Lando nearly losing control during the clash with Oscar."

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

"Not exactly. Oscar performed exceptionally well in the race. They maximized the car's potential today," he commented.

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