McLaren issues order to Norris and Piastri after Singapore Sprint collision

Tensions have risen within the McLaren Formula 1 team following a collision between teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri during the Singapore Grand Prix Sprint race. The incident occurred on the final lap at Turn 5 when Norris attempted an overtake, resulting in both cars spinning. Piastri was forced to retire, while Norris finished eighth, significantly reducing the points the team could have earned.

McLaren CEO Zak Brown issued a stern directive to both drivers, stating that the incident was an order to ‘not do that again,’ emphasizing that team interests must supersede individual goals. Team Principal Andrea Stella noted that the team is conducting reflections on collective leadership and team unity. Lando Norris later admitted his error, stating he should have prioritized the team over himself.

Former Aston Martin boss Otmar Szafnauer suggested that McLaren should link driver bonuses to the team's position in the Constructors' Championship to prevent such internal disputes. Additionally, former driver Juan Pablo Montoya offered a differing view, suggesting that McLaren's internal ‘papaya rules’ and Piastri's defensive driving also contributed to the crash.