Oscar Piastri has released a public statement following Lando Norris’ candid remarks regarding their controversial first-lap collision during the Singapore Grand Prix. The incident unfolded when Norris made contact with Piastri at Turn 2 while maneuvering to avoid Max Verstappen’s Red Bull. Although Piastri’s car remained intact, he ceded his position to Norris, who sustained only minor front-wing damage that did not necessitate a pit stop. Norris eventually secured third place, with Piastri following closely behind in fourth.
Despite his strong finish, Piastri voiced frustration over McLaren’s decision not to intervene during the race. Team radio captured his immediate reaction, where he criticized the lack of accountability, declaring that Norris’ attempt to avoid Verstappen by colliding with his teammate was “a pretty s**t job of avoiding.” The Australian driver, who now leads the Drivers’ Championship by 22 points over Norris, was visibly displeased with the team’s judgment on the matter.
When questioned post-race, Norris defended his actions, suggesting that his move was justifiable and typical of any driver under similar circumstances. He conceded to misjudging his proximity to Verstappen but emphasized that such errors are part of racing, insisting there was “nothing wrong” with his approach. His comments divided fans and pundits alike, with some defending his aggressive racing instinct and others questioning his respect for team dynamics.
Adding fuel to speculation, Piastri was notably absent from McLaren’s Constructors’ Championship celebrations later that day, prompting rumors of rising tension between the two teammates. However, sources confirmed that Piastri’s absence was due to ongoing media obligations, not internal discord. The driver later took to Instagram to congratulate McLaren, praising the team for an “amazing season” and expressing optimism for the remaining rounds.
With six races left, the spotlight now shifts to what could become a fierce intra-team championship battle. Verstappen, trailing by 66 points, remains a distant but viable contender. McLaren, confident in their car’s performance on upcoming circuits such as Brazil, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, may soon find itself balancing both triumph and turmoil as its two rising stars compete for the ultimate prize — supremacy within the same garage.
