McLaren’s team principal, Andrea Stella, has acknowledged the need for a comprehensive review following the collision between drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri during the Singapore Grand Prix. The incident, which took place on the first lap, has raised concerns about the trust between the drivers and the team. Piastri, currently leading the championship standings, expressed frustration after the collision reduced his lead over Norris to just 22 points with six races remaining in the season.
The collision occurred when Norris attempted an overtaking maneuver, resulting in contact between the two McLaren cars. The stewards did not take any action, while McLaren declined Piastri’s request for a review of the incident, citing that it was triggered by Norris’s reaction to clipping the rear of Max Verstappen‘s Red Bull moments earlier. Piastri voiced his dissatisfaction over the radio, stating that the team’s decision was “not fair.” Although he later adopted a calmer tone in interviews, pundits, including Jamie Chadwick from Sky Sports F1, suggested that the competitive dynamics between the drivers have shifted.
Review Process and Team Dynamics
In light of the incident, Stella emphasized the importance of a detailed and analytical review. “Our review needs to be very detailed, very analytical,” he stated after McLaren secured a second consecutive Constructors’ Championship title in Singapore. He highlighted the necessity of considering both drivers’ perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
Stella expressed that understanding the situation accurately is crucial, not just for championship points but also for maintaining the trust of the drivers in the team’s decisions. “There’s a lot at stake,” he noted, underscoring that the drivers’ confidence in the team’s operations is foundational to their success.
Reflecting on the aggressive move made by Norris at Turn 3 of the Marina Bay Street Circuit, Stella remarked that it was a “bit too much of a coarse approach.” He reiterated the need for sophistication in their decision-making process, cautioning against drawing hasty conclusions.
Looking Ahead to the United States Grand Prix
Despite the tensions that may arise from the recent collision, Stella remains optimistic about the team’s unity going forward. He referenced a previous incident earlier in the season when Norris and Piastri collided in Canada. Following that event, the team engaged in productive discussions, which Stella believes can also be achieved after the Singapore incident.
“We will review the situation together with our drivers,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of open communication. “This review gave us the opportunity after Canada to come back even more united and stronger as a team.”
However, the nature of the two incidents differs significantly. In Canada, Norris accepted responsibility immediately, which helped to diffuse any potential tensions. In contrast, the circumstances surrounding the Singapore collision remain more controversial, with Piastri’s initial reaction highlighting the emotional intensity of racing.
Stella expressed confidence that Piastri’s assessment of the incident would evolve into a more measured perspective following their discussions. “Oscar made some statements while he was in the car, but that’s the kind of character we want from our drivers,” he explained.
As the Formula 1 season heads to the United States Grand Prix, scheduled for October 17-19, 2024, in Austin, McLaren aims to navigate this challenging situation and emerge stronger. The upcoming race will be crucial for both drivers as they continue their battle for the championship.
