McLaren has officially addressed the growing tension between teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri following their heated clash at the Singapore Grand Prix. Despite securing the Constructors’ Championship for the second consecutive year, the celebratory atmosphere was tainted by an on-track collision that reignited questions about internal team dynamics and discipline within the Woking-based outfit.
As the 2025 Formula One season nears its conclusion with just six races remaining, both McLaren drivers remain at the forefront of the Drivers’ Championship, while reigning champion Max Verstappen clings to a distant mathematical hope. However, Norris’s aggressive first-lap maneuver in Singapore — which saw contact with both Verstappen and Piastri — has sparked controversy over whether McLaren’s policy of allowing free racing has gone too far.
Team principal Andrea Stella has since confirmed that McLaren will conduct a thorough internal review into the incident before taking further steps. He emphasized that the investigation would be “detailed and analytical,” incorporating both drivers’ perspectives to ensure a fair and transparent resolution. Stella stressed the importance of maintaining trust between teammates, particularly during a season in which both drivers are fighting for individual glory under the same banner.
“We must be meticulous because much more than championship points is at stake,” Stella explained. “Our responsibility extends to preserving the integrity of our team operations and the mutual confidence between our drivers. The concept of ‘let them race’ is essential to competition, but it inevitably brings difficult situations that require balance and understanding.”
The incident highlights the delicate equilibrium McLaren must maintain as it manages two highly competitive drivers vying for the same championship. While Stella insists the team will protect the freedom to race, he also acknowledges that unchecked rivalry can jeopardize harmony and long-term success. As the season enters its decisive phase, McLaren’s ability to manage this internal power struggle may ultimately determine whether its dominance continues or unravels under the weight of ambition.
