Lando Norris has shown immense professionalism and team spirit in the wake of the Spanish Grand Prix, publicly backing McLaren's contentious decision to implement team orders that cost him a potential second-place finish.
The British driver, who started from pole position, found himself in a fierce battle with teammate Oscar Piastri during the latter stages of the Barcelona race. In a move that sparked debate amongst fans, McLaren instructed Piastri to not fight Norris, effectively handing the position to his more experienced teammate to chase down Max Verstappen.
A Decision for the Greater Good
Despite the order ultimately benefiting him, Norris revealed a surprising level of empathy for his teammate's situation. "As much as I don't like it, and I hate it, and I hate doing it... I would have done the same," Norris confessed, demonstrating a veteran's understanding of the sport's strategic demands.
He elaborated on the difficult position it puts a driver in, acknowledging that Piastri had every right to feel frustrated. "I've been in the position of Oscar many times," Norris stated, showing solidarity with his colleague. "He's trying to fight for his own position and his own race, and probably his best result of the year, and then you get told to let your teammate by."
The Masterplan That Secured a Double Podium
McLaren's calculated gamble was not just about Norris's race; it was a strategic masterstroke designed to maximise the team's overall points haul. The logic was clear: a released Norris had a better chance of challenging the dominant Red Bull of Verstappen for the win, while holding station risked allowing George Russell's Mercedes to close in on both papaya cars.
"If we both start racing, George probably would have had both of us," Norris explained, validating the team's call. The result was a spectacular double podium for the resurgent McLaren team—a third for Norris and a fourth, upgraded to third after Russell's post-race penalty, for a dutiful Piastri.
Maturity Beyond His Years
Norris's reaction highlights a significant maturation in the 24-year-old star. Instead of pure jubilation, his response was measured and team-focused. He recognised that such orders, while painful in the moment, are a necessary part of fighting at the sharp end of the Constructors' Championship.
This display of unity and strategic thinking from both drivers and the team sends a powerful message to their rivals: McLaren is not just a team with a fast car, but a cohesive unit willing to make tough calls to achieve collective success.
