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McLaren's Title Gambit: Drivers to Race for Team, Not Just Glory
6 Dec, 2025
Summary
- McLaren CEO Zak Brown may implement team orders at Abu Dhabi GP.
- Lando Norris needs a podium finish to secure his first title.
- Oscar Piastri will support Norris if it aids championship pursuit.
McLaren Racing's CEO, Zak Brown, has signaled a potential shift in strategy for the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, suggesting team orders might be employed to secure the Drivers' Championship. This move comes as Lando Norris is in a strong position to win his first title, needing a podium finish.
Initially, both Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri will be allowed to race freely. However, Brown stated that if the situation develops to favor one driver over the other for the championship, the team will act pragmatically to maximize their chances against competitors like Red Bull's Max Verstappen. This implies Piastri could be asked to yield to Norris.
Brown clarified that this potential adjustment is not a reversal of McLaren's 'papaya rules,' which emphasize respect among teammates. The team's priority is winning the championship, and common sense will guide decisions to avoid forfeiting points in favor of individual victories that do not contribute to the ultimate team goal.
