F1 | McLaren’s surprising U-turn levels the field and opens the door for Max Verstappen – Mexico GP. At the Mexico GP, McLaren makes a surprising U-turn that resets the rivalry between Piastri and Norris.

The advantage granted to Oscar Piastri following the incident with Lando Norris at the Singapore Grand Prix was short-lived. The Australian driver confirmed that the restrictions previously imposed on the British driver have already expired, lasting effectively only through the Austin GP.

The last McLaren weekend in Texas was not an easy one. The most notable moment came at Turn 1, where a multi-car incident involved both papaya cars. The crash, likely caused by Oscar Piastri, resulted in a double DNF for the team.

On Sunday, only Lando Norris managed to recover, finishing in second place behind Max Verstappen. Thanks to the fallout between the two teammates, Verstappen has now reduced his gap to the championship leader to 40 points, while he remains 26 points behind the British driver.

The Sprint race incident, initially misattributed by McLaren to Nico Hulkenberg, was later reviewed. As Oscar Piastri confirmed, the team’s evaluation changed significantly.

“We reviewed everything, as we do every weekend,” said the 2001-born driver in pre-weekend interviews. “I think I bear some responsibility for the Sprint, but we are starting from scratch: a clean slate for both of us. Now it’s just about going on track, racing, and seeing who comes out ahead.”

When asked if the repercussions previously assigned to Norris after the Singapore incident had been lifted, Oscar Piastri confirmed: “Yes, the consequences for Lando have been removed. In the end, several factors were involved, but this was the decision.” The “repercussions” discussed at Austin appeared to relate to Oscar Piastri having priority on who would leave the pit lane first in qualifying, but that advantage is now nullified.

While McLaren attempts in every way to manage the championship battle between its drivers, Verstappen becomes an increasingly threatening presence that can no longer be ignored. “I don’t think about it too much,” Oscar Piastri said regarding the Dutchman’s approach.

“Max has been consistent and very strong in recent weekends, but it doesn’t make sense to focus on him. The only way to win the championship is to get the maximum out of myself, the car, and the team.”

Finally, regarding the upcoming weekend, Oscar Piastri added: “It’s hard to know how close we’ll be. Our predictions have not always been accurate with these cars. Red Bull has regained consistency and pace, but we will do everything to maximize our car’s potential and see where we end up.”