Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris both claimed they could accept McLaren’s team order during the Italian Grand Prix. However, Piastri stated, “I would like to discuss it.”
The Australian was the victim of the team order. He complied, allowing Norris to pass, and watched his teammate and World Championship rival finish second behind Max Verstappen. Piastri had to settle for P3, seeing Norris gain three points in the title race. “But the team had a valid reason for this team order,” he acknowledged. “There is something to be said for it.”
The Australian continued: “Lando had qualified better, was ahead of me in the race, was faster this weekend. So, I understand.” It was strange, though, as a slow pit stop is part of racing. Piastri more or less said the same thing during the race on the radio. “So, we need to discuss it,” he repeated.
Norris, of course, was pleased to regain second place through the team. “A slow pit stop is a team mistake, so I’m glad I got the spot back. And vice versa, I would have done the same. If it had happened to Oscar, I would have let him pass too. But okay, it may look strange, I understand that. I would rather not have it this way, but it is fair.”
