This Formula 1 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent years, and McLaren finds itself in an enviable yet delicate position. With Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri emerging as the grid’s frontrunners, the team faces the challenge of managing an intra-team McLaren battle for the Drivers’ Championship.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown remains unfazed, in spite of speculation about a growing rivalry. Brown acknowledged the possibility of rising tensions between the teammates but insisted the team is prepared to handle any fallout.
The Contingency Plan
The team’s approach to the McLaren battle appears to be proactive rather than reactive. Brown revealed that clear team protocols are in place to prevent on-track clashes from escalating, including briefings outlining racing conduct.
“If something bubbles up, we’ll deal with it,” Brown asserted. “It seems like from the outside looking in, when you’ve seen battles between other teammates, you’ve kind of seen it brewing, and you kind of go like ‘have they jumped on that, or are they just kind of letting it build up?” he explained.
Crucially, Brown stressed that McLaren will not impose team orders unless absolutely necessary, preferring to let their drivers race. However, he made it clear that the team’s championship goals for the Constructors’ title will come first.
While managing two elite drivers is a challenge, Brown recognises it’s a luxury many teams would like to have. With Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes all fielding strong line-ups, McLaren knows that a cohesive driver pairing is crucial to securing back-to-back Constructors’ Championships.
“We’re very fortunate to have the two personalities that we have. We love the challenge,” Brown claimed. “I’m looking forward to them racing each other”.
As the second half of 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Norris and Piastri. If their rivalry does intensify, McLaren’s contingency plans will determine whether they remain at the pinnacle of F1 or succumb to the same infighting that has derailed other teams.
The McLaren Battle So Far
Lando Norris, a seasoned race winner and title contender, has long been considered McLaren’s golden boy. However, Oscar Piastri’s rapid ascent since his 2023 debut has been nothing short of remarkable. The young Australian driver has consistently matched Norris’ pace, winning races and securing podium finishes.
With six wins for Piastri and five for Norris, the McLaren pair have dominated the season. The team has won 11 out of the 14 races so far, cementing them as the leaders in the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships.
Lando Norris Ready for War, Admits Close Battle with Oscar Piastri Will Go On ‘Until the End’
Currently, Piastri leads the standings for the drivers’ title but Norris’ victory at the Hungaroring reduced their gap to 9 points. Their success has raised questions over whether the team will soon face a Hamilton-Rosberg style duel.
Brown downplayed concerns, pointing out the pair’s professional relationship. “I don’t think they’ll properly fall out because of the communication, trust, and respect we all have,” he explained.
Brown dismissed their previous collision earlier this season in Canada, adding, “I’m glad we got it out of the way, because it was a non-event, Lando owned it, Oscar understood, it was a mistake”.
He has full confidence in his drivers and the rest of the team to successfully manage this rivalry. McLaren’s priority is maintaining harmony while allowing both drivers to fight fairly.
