McLaren's hopes for a strong points finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix evaporated in a matter of seconds after a disastrous intra-team collision between Lando Norris and rookie Oscar Piastri.
The incident unfolded on the frantic run down to Turn 3 on the very first lap. Norris, attempting to navigate the tight corner, was hit from behind by his own teammate, sending both papaya-coloured cars into the barriers and out of the race on the spot.
The clash immediately brought out the Safety Car, bunching up the field and dramatically altering the strategic landscape of the race. While the two drivers emerged unscathed from the wreckage, the same cannot be said for their machinery, with the team facing a significant repair bill and a devastating double DNF.
Team Boss Andrea Stella Reacts
McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella addressed the media after the race, confirming the team's disappointment. He stated that an initial review suggested it was a racing incident born from the intense, high-stakes nature of the opening lap on a street circuit.
"It's a huge shame for the team," Stella was quoted as saying. "We had the pace to fight for good points here. Now we have to regroup, learn from this, and focus on the next race."
Fans and Pundits Left Stunned
The shocking incident sent social media into a frenzy, with fans and F1 commentators expressing their disbelief at seeing two teammates take each other out so early in the grand prix. The crash is a major setback for McLaren's constructors' championship ambitions, costing the team a potential haul of crucial points.
All focus for the Woking-based outfit now turns to the immense task of rebuilding two heavily damaged cars ahead of the next round of the championship.
