Red Bull's Max Verstappen has thrown down the gauntlet to McLaren's Oscar Piastri, telling the Australian he would be a 'number two driver' if he doesn't challenge teammate Lando Norris for victory at the crucial Qatar Grand Prix this weekend.
Verstappen's Fiery Challenge to Piastri
The reigning world champion welcomed McLaren's confirmation that they will not implement team orders to favour championship leader Norris, who holds a 24-point advantage over both Verstappen and Piastri heading into the penultimate round of the 2025 season.
Verstappen didn't hold back when discussing the situation, stating that 'a real winner and a racer' would 'go for it' regardless of the championship standings. The Red Bull driver, seeking his fifth world title, clearly understands that a fierce battle between the McLaren duo could play directly into his hands.
'Why would you suddenly now say that Oscar wouldn't be allowed anymore to race?' Verstappen questioned. 'If that was said to me, I would have not rocked up. I would have told them to eff off!'
McLaren's Stance on Team Orders
Piastri confirmed on Thursday that McLaren have maintained their season-long position, despite the high stakes. 'We've had a very brief discussion and the answer is no,' the Australian said when asked if the team would favour Norris. 'I'm still equal on points with Max. I've got a decent shot of still winning it if things go my way.'
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella reinforced this approach in an earlier statement, emphasising that the team will not change their strategy at this critical juncture. 'No, there is no reason to do so,' Stella stated. 'We have always said that as long as the maths does not say otherwise, we would leave it up to the two drivers to fight.'
Championship Scenarios in Qatar
The dramatic turn of events comes after McLaren's double disqualification at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which brought Verstappen back into title contention after he had appeared to be out of the running.
British driver Norris now faces a tantalising opportunity to clinch his first world championship this very weekend. If he outscores both Verstappen and Piastri by two points across the sprint race and main grand prix, the title will be his with one round remaining.
Verstappen's comments have added further intrigue to what promises to be a thrilling weekend at the Lusail International Circuit, where team loyalties, personal ambition, and championship dreams will all collide under the Qatari lights.
