Source: REUTERS/Edgar Su
[Saba Sports News] McLaren’s “hold position” instruction during the opening round of the new F1 season at the Australian Grand Prix has sparked widespread discussion. Oscar Piastri was instructed during the race not to overtake teammate Lando Norris, even though he believed he was faster. On the eve of the F1 Chinese Grand Prix, Piastri revealed that the team had long discussions about this and reached a consensus. In response, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella engaged in crisis management, stating that the instruction was temporary, primarily to protect the two leading cars and to address the impending rain threat. He also acknowledged that the team needs to reassess its communication methods with the drivers. Despite the controversy over team orders, Piastri expressed approval of the team’s handling of the situation. He emphasized that McLaren’s goal is to maximize team interests while competition between drivers will be better balanced in the future.