Piastri-Norris dynamic raises questions after Monza
Former F1 champion Nico Rosberg suggests Oscar Piastri's contract at McLaren may prevent team orders favoring Lando Norris, despite the latter's closer position to the championship lead.
The Italian Grand Prix highlighted a fascinating dynamic within the McLaren team, as Oscar Piastri's assertive performance against teammate Lando Norris raised eyebrows throughout the paddock.
Former World Champion Nico Rosberg has now weighed in, suggesting Piastri's contract may be a key factor in the team's approach.
A crucial moment at Monza
Despite starting from pole position, Norris found himself unable to fend off a determined Piastri at the second chicane on the opening lap.
This move set the tone for a race that saw the Australian rookie maintain his advantage over his more experienced teammate, even through the pit stop phase.
The lack of team orders favoring Norris, who is closer to Max Verstappen in the championship standings, left many in the paddock perplexed.
Rosberg, speaking on Sky F1's podcast, offered a potential explanation for McLaren's hands-off approach.
"It is hard though on Oscar, because Oscar, in his contract, he will have a number one contract,"
Rosberg stated.
"Yeah, it won't say in his contract that you need to help Lando."
Contractual obligations and championship mathematics
Rosberg's comments shed light on the complex situation McLaren finds itself in.
While Norris may be the team's best hope for challenging Verstappen's title lead, Piastri's impressive performances and potential contractual status complicate matters.
"Oscar is driving brilliantly so he deserves every opportunity, just from his point of view, to get race wins,"
Rosberg added, highlighting the rookie's strong form.
The 2016 World Champion also pointed out that Piastri remains mathematically in contention for the title, albeit with a significant gap to close.
This factor further justifies the team's reluctance to impose orders that could hinder the Australian's progress.
Balancing act for McLaren
McLaren's management now faces a delicate balancing act.
On one hand, they have a more established driver in Norris who is closer to the championship lead.
On the other, they have a rapidly improving rookie in Piastri who is demonstrating race-winning potential.
Rosberg warned against potentially damaging the team's relationship with Piastri through overly restrictive team orders.
"You need to be very, very careful,"
he cautioned.
"You can also destroy a young driver mentally if you suddenly don't treat him fairly."
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