George Russell believes that McLaren should not employ team orders this weekend in Abu Dhabi to aid Lando Norris in securing his first world title. According to the Mercedes driver, it would be unfair to both Norris and Oscar Piastri to intervene so late in the season. “I wouldn’t want to win a championship like that,” Russell stated.
Lando Norris enters the decisive weekend in Abu Dhabi as the championship leader, with a 12-point lead over Max Verstappen. Teammate Oscar Piastri is four points behind Verstappen, meaning both McLaren drivers still have a shot at the title. However, there is an increasing suggestion that McLaren could instruct Piastri to let Norris pass. George Russell believes such an intervention would deviate from the principles McLaren has adhered to all season. “I think it’s unfair to both drivers,” he told the media in Abu Dhabi. “If Max wins, he deserves it. And if Oscar has to let Lando pass… I wouldn’t want to win a championship because my teammate steps aside, especially not when he’s been my direct rival this season.”
According to Russell, it only makes sense to intervene if a clear hierarchy within the team has been established throughout the season. “If someone has clearly been the number two all year, fine. But at this point in the championship, with two drivers who both still have a chance at the title, you just have to accept fate.” When Russell was asked what he would do in Piastri’s position, the Brit responded with a wink: “It’s always easier to pull the radio out!”
No Room for Team Orders
However, Russell understands that McLaren may think differently from a team perspective. “From the team’s point of view, you almost have to make such a decision. But as a driver… in two years, no one will remember how Lando won his title. No one will really care about that. For me, as a racer, this should not be discussed in a morning meeting at this point in the season.”
