Andrea Stella and Zak Brown, respectively the Team Principal and Chief Executive Officer of McLaren, agree that their two drivers battling for the Formula 1 World Championship have equal chances of winning. The team fully allows the fight on track with no official favorite.
The two drivers from the Woking-based team are undoubtedly at a similar level, and recently they have alternated on the top step of the podium. Just look at the last two races: Lando Norris won in Hungary, and Oscar Piastri took victory in Belgium.
Words from the top management
“We know it is risky not to side with just one driver, but we will give Oscar and Lando equal opportunities to fight on track for the Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship,” said Zak Brown. “It is exciting for us and for the sport.”
“We believe the benefits of racing this way far outweigh the consequences, even though we know incidents can happen.” Besides enhancing the team’s positive image, declaring an open fight keeps the motivation and enthusiasm high for both drivers, while obviously having two number one drivers in the team (which is good, as long as no one rebels).
So far, the McLaren duo has opted for teamwork, although some incidents could hint at a possible future intense rivalry between the two. Nonetheless, Andrea Stella does not seem worried.
“We are also racing in a certain way that is open and gives our drivers the opportunity to express their talent, their aspirations, their quality, and their constant development,” he stated.
“That’s why we are here, and we feel very privileged to be in this position. Not only because of the team we have but also because of Oscar and Lando, who are two great drivers, but above all two great people.” It is clear that there is a strong trust relationship between drivers and the team, a feeling that is still missing in many other Formula 1 teams today.
“When it comes to fighting for a World Championship between teammates, everyone has a different perspective – and some can be critical – so it is important for me to clarify a few things. First of all, as I have said before, I firmly believe we have the best driver lineup in Formula 1, and I wouldn’t change it for any other,” the Team Principal reaffirmed.
“Secondly, when two drivers compete for the World Championship, it is natural there is a lot of excitement, and we share this excitement. There is nothing we enjoy more than watching these guys challenge each other. So, may the best one win.”
Despite the laudable vision of Stella and Brown, Piastri and Norris have never been this close: only 9 points separate them with 10 races remaining. Will an open battle really be the best solution?
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