McLaren and the calamitous management of its drivers

These are radio messages that nobody likes to hear. But during this Japanese Grand Prix, they would have been very beneficial to be heard. About ten laps from the end, Lando Norris was gently putting pressure on Max Verstappen. The two men were only separated by a second and a half. But there was no direct threat. Behind them, Oscar Piastri was more insistent on his teammate.

The Australian seemed to have a stronger pace than the driver in #4. He even mentioned this on the radio. Unfortunately for him, he couldn’t overtake the Brit in a fair fight. With much better lap times, McLaren could have asked to swap positions to give Oscar Piastri a chance to challenge the Dutchman. But no.

A pointless complaint on the radio

This decision allowed Max Verstappen to prevail and come within one point of Lando Norris, leading the championship. By trying to manage too well, McLaren offers no competition to its rival for the title. Indeed, they mustn’t upset a Lando Norris who could sulk at the slightest opportunity. Something he actually did in Hungary last year.

By the way, what was going through his mind when he left the pits? Did he really think the Red Bull driver would kindly let him take control of the race? Obviously not. So, a quick trip across the grass before complaining on the radio. A situation the vice world champion could have avoided. But oh well.

If his team had ordered a change of positions in favor of Oscar Piastri, the Australian could have chased the four-time world champion. If he managed to pass him, the points situation would benefit the Papayas. Oscar Piastri could overtake the Dutchman in the standings, Lando Norris would maintain a larger lead. And if he didn’t manage it, he would give back his place. Something we’ve seen multiple times in Grand Prix. But no, it’s so much better to maintain the status quo.

Strengthen the game

So yes, we have three winners in three Grand Prix races. Max Verstappen was excellent, you can’t take that away from him, especially in a car less performant than the McLaren. However, by being overly cordial, the Woking team is boosting the confidence of a man in search of his fifth crown. And he doesn’t need much help to triumph. With such an attitude, Zak Brown and company are going to hand him his fifth title on a silver platter.

To beat Max Verstappen, McLaren will need both of its drivers. This sentiment was also expressed in Hungary last year. Thus, egos must be set aside to stand against the Dutchman. By trying not to offend either driver, the world champion constructor team risks not going very far. Fortunately for them, Ferrari and Mercedes are lagging behind…