Lando Norris has criticised McLaren's strategy call at the Qatar Grand Prix, which allowed Max Verstappen to close the championship gap and set up a three-way title decider in Abu Dhabi. Norris finished fourth after McLaren opted not to pit under an early safety car, a decision that handed the lead and victory to Verstappen.
Norris, who entered the weekend 24 points clear of both Verstappen and teammate Oscar Piastri, now leads Verstappen by only 12 points and Piastri by 16. 'Obviously not our greatest day, not our greatest weekend,' Norris said, insisting both drivers should have pitted when Verstappen did.
Piastri, who finished second, expressed 'pretty high' frustration, calling the error 'painful' given the team's strong pace. 'Clearly we didn't get it right today,' he said. Both drivers acknowledged the need to review the decision ahead of the season finale.
Team principal Andrea Stella admitted the team had not capitalised on the drivers' performances recently, following a double disqualification in Las Vegas. He confirmed McLaren would not introduce team orders for the Abu Dhabi race, pledging to race with integrity and fairness to both drivers.
Verstappen, who appeared out of contention after the Dutch Grand Prix in August, expressed delight at still being in the fight. 'This year we just had a really tough first half... but to still be in this fight, I think we can be really proud of it,' he said.
