McLaren anticipates a clash between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri: Zak Brown unveils his plan
With McLaren dominating the start of the 2025 season, Zak Brown claims to have anticipated a possible clash between his two drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
After five Grand Prix races, McLaren sits at the top of the constructors' championship with 188 points, ahead of Mercedes (111 points) and Red Bull (89 points). Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris occupy the top two spots in the drivers' standings with 99 and 89 points, respectively, ahead of Max Verstappen (87 points).
In an interview with Channel 4, Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, stated: « The good of the team is to try to achieve one-twos. It's up to them to decide who is first and who is second. They are free to race. It's not if something happens, it's when something happens... It's alright, they race hard, they are good competitors. »
Freedom to race, but with limits
McLaren has chosen not to impose a hierarchy between its drivers, an approach similar to that adopted by Ferrari, unlike Red Bull where Max Verstappen is designated leader. This strategy, although risky, aims to maximize the team's performance without restricting the natural competitiveness of its drivers.
The experience of the 2024 season, where team strategy had sometimes been criticized, notably when Lando Norris was disadvantaged against Oscar Piastri despite his fight for the title, seems to have led McLaren to better anticipate internal issues this year. « We have already discussed it. All those people who want to see something exciting happen? It will be a non-event », says Zak Brown.
Miami in the crosshairs
The next meeting in Miami could well be a new scene of rivalry. Oscar Piastri, recent winner of two consecutive Grand Prix (China and Saudi Arabia), is now leading the championship for the first time in his career. Meanwhile, the Briton, who was the victim of a qualifying error in Jeddah, is determined to bounce back on a circuit where he triumphed last year.
The McLaren duo offers a new dynamic in the paddock today: a title fight between teammates, without strict team orders. It remains to be seen how long this harmony can last, as the intensity of the season promises many more twists and turns.
