Piastri vs Norris: first McLaren derby at Austin after Constructors’ title
The upcoming weekend will mark the first Grand Prix of the season with the Constructors’ Championship already secured by McLaren. Thanks to their dominant performance, particularly in the first half of the season, the Woking-based team clinched the tenth constructors’ title in their history with six races to spare. However, despite the celebrations in the last GP at Singapore, tensions have emerged within the team between championship leader Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, following a contested first-lap incident involving the Australian driver.
This tension, coupled with the looming threat of a potential comeback from Norris and Max Verstappen, will need to be managed carefully by Oscar Piastri, especially ahead of the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin. This weekend will also feature the first Sprint race since Spa-Francorchamps. “I can’t wait to tackle the Circuit of the Americas, especially because it’s a Sprint weekend,” commented the 24-year-old Oscar Piastri. “I’m fully focused on performance and getting the most out of both races. The track has some interesting sections, particularly the high-speed esses, and its layout allows for good racing. I always have fun here, and this weekend should be exciting too.”
Lando Norris is also focused on closing the gap to his teammate after finishing behind #81 in every race since Monza. “It’s great to arrive in Austin as Constructors’ Champions, but we still have six races left and plenty of important points up for grabs in the Drivers’ Championship,” said Norris. “The US Grand Prix is always fun, especially with a Sprint weekend. The fans create an incredible atmosphere, and I really enjoy driving at the Circuit of the Americas. It’s fast and offers good overtaking opportunities. I can’t wait to get going again.”
Leave a Reply