Overview

• At the Italian Grand Prix, McLaren told Oscar Piastri to hand back position to Lando Norris after a slow Norris pit stop, with the team framing the swap as preserving equality.
• Oscar Piastri holds a 31-point lead in the drivers’ standings as the debate over McLaren’s approach intensifies.
• Former driver Robert Doornbos labeled the decision unfair, hinted at perceived favoritism toward Norris, and warned it could backfire later in the season.
• Motorsport.com writers argue the team-first policy has taken the edge off the Norris–Piastri title fight, noting the season remains one flashpoint from igniting after earlier incidents like Canada.
• Palmer suggested McLaren may be questioning its handling of Monza and wondered whether either driver will show a more ruthless streak in Baku.