F1: McLaren’s Piastri to support Norris and

McLaren have confirmed that they will prioritise Lando Norris over Oscar Piastri for the remainder of the 2024 Formula 1 season in a bid to boost their title chances. The decision comes in response to Norris’ strong performances and McLaren’s recent pace of development, which has narrowed their championship lead over Max Verstappen. Verstappen’s 62-point lead now looks more tenuous following Red Bull’s disappointing performance at the Monza Grand Prix. With eight races remaining, McLaren are determined to use this opportunity to mount a title challenge against Verstappen. Until now, McLaren has treated both Norris and Piastri the same, allowing them to race freely. However, the team’s strategic shift suggests they believe focusing on Norris can deliver better results in their pursuit of the title.

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F1: What are McLaren’s ‘Papaya Rules’?

The papaya rule was highlighted again recently when McLaren team-mates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri clashed at the Italian Grand Prix. Piastri’s aggressive overtaking manoeuvre at the second turn exposed underlying tensions within the team.

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella clarified that the papaya rule does not prevent drivers from racing against each other, but requires respect and caution. Despite the incident, McLaren has reduced Red Bull’s lead in the constructors’ championship to just eight points.

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Ferrari’s victory at Monza has intensified the championship battle. McLaren CEO Zak Brown said the team is looking forward to the remaining eight races and the team’s goal is to challenge for the constructors’ championship.

Stella reiterated that the Papaya rules prioritise fair and respectful racing between McLaren drivers. The team will head into the Azerbaijan Grand Prix aiming to lead the constructors’ championship, determined to close the gap to Red Bull.