The Strategy to Win a Championship: Teamwork is Key
In the fast-paced world of Formula One, the path to winning a championship is rarely about individual brilliance; it’s about the strength of the team. As Will Joseph, McLaren’s race engineer, wisely said: “The way to win a championship is with the team. You’re going to need Oscar and you’re going to need the team.” Lando Norris might have pondered this after the Italian Grand Prix as he saw teammate Oscar Piastri shine, just weeks after Joseph’s words echoed at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
At Monza, McLaren found itself in a situation where teamwork should have been front and center. In the opening lap, Piastri made a stunning overtake, forcing Norris to brake to avoid contact. Later, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc edging closer to a home victory, McLaren made a bold choice—no team orders were issued, and Piastri was not asked to let Norris move into second. Norris, in his pursuit of championship leader Max Verstappen, could have used the extra points, but McLaren stuck with their “Papaya rules,” emphasizing fair racing between teammates.
The Role of the “Papaya Rules”
McLaren’s philosophy, the “Papaya rules,” was first mentioned by team principal Andrea Stella, focusing on sensible racing between the drivers. Yet, when looking at the events in Monza, it’s hard not to wonder if these rules were clear or effective. While Norris avoided spinning after Piastri’s aggressive move, McLaren’s lack of decisive strategy—such as protecting Norris’ lead—seemed to falter, especially given the championship context.
Pundits like Nico Rosberg were quick to question McLaren’s approach. The team, which has transformed its MCL38 into a top contender, has had moments where it failed to capitalize fully. Though McLaren walked away with both drivers on the podium and gains in the constructors’ standings, the lack of conviction in handling Norris and Piastri raised concerns.
A Dilemma: Prioritize or Play Fair?
McLaren’s reluctance to enforce team orders highlights a deeper dilemma. Unlike Red Bull’s clear hierarchy between Verstappen and Sergio Pérez, McLaren’s situation isn’t as straightforward. While Norris has been the more consistent driver, both he and Piastri have the potential to become world champions. Team boss Zak Brown seems intent on nurturing both drivers, making it difficult to relegate Piastri to a supporting role.
Piastri, who only has one grand prix win to his name, now finds himself with a car that could challenge for victory in every remaining race this season. Asking him to step aside for Norris could damage morale, not just for Piastri but for the team’s long-term goals. It’s a balancing act between fostering a competitive environment and pushing one driver for the championship.
Reflections on Norris’ Role
For Norris, Monza was a moment of reflection. As McLaren reviewed the race, questions lingered—would Norris have allowed Piastri’s move if it hadn’t been his teammate behind him? Even if Norris had misjudged McLaren’s “Papaya rules,” he left too much space for a talented driver like Piastri. In the ruthless world of championship battles, drivers like Verstappen or Hamilton likely wouldn’t have been so accommodating, even against a teammate.
To win a championship, Norris must learn to be more aggressive. Monza may have been a reminder that while teamwork is crucial, individual determination and tactical ruthlessness can’t be forgotten.
Looking Forward: McLaren’s Team Dynamics
As McLaren heads into the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the team’s handling of Norris and Piastri will dominate discussions. McLaren knows that fleeting moments of success, like their front-row lockouts at Zandvoort and Monza, might not last. Stella, who has steered McLaren’s resurgence, understands the complexities of team orders. Drawing on past experiences, such as managing Fernando Alonso at Ferrari, he knows how tough these situations can be.
While McLaren missed an opportunity at Monza, the team remains focused on the bigger picture—both drivers working together to push for a championship. The challenge will be finding the right balance between team spirit and pushing their star drivers, particularly as the stakes grow higher. As McLaren refines its strategy, only time will tell if “Papaya rules” will help or hinder their championship dreams.
