Overview

• Piastri leads the drivers' standings by about 22 points over Norris with six races left, with McLaren already champions in the constructors' race.
• Steiner publicly urged McLaren to designate Piastri as its priority for the run-in, arguing the team risks losing the title if it keeps the fight open.
• Ralf Schumacher warned the intra-team duel could end in a decisive collision and said intervention may be necessary if Verstappen closes further.
• Verstappen has cut into the McLaren duo’s advantage with recent wins and podiums, shifting Red Bull back into the conversation ahead of Austin.
• High Court testimony from Alex Palou that Zak Brown initially did not want to hire Piastri has intensified speculation about the Australian’s long-term future, with reported links to top teams described as rumor.