Max Verstappen supports McLaren allowing Piastri and Norris to race freely in Qatar GP title fight, saying “real winners” don’t accept team orders
MAX VERSTAPPEN has welcomed McLaren’s decision not to implement team orders ahead of the three-way drivers’ championship battle at the Qatar Grand Prix.
The Red Bull driver, who sits level with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and 24 points behind Lando Norris with two races remaining, said he wasn’t surprised by the rival team’s approach.
“You can’t do a better job than allowing them to race, because why would you suddenly now say that Oscar wouldn’t be allowed to race him anymore,” Verstappen said.
The Dutch driver added he would unequivocally reject any team orders if placed in a similar situation.
“If you’re a real winner and a racer, as a driver, then you go for it, even if you are behind,” he stated.
“Otherwise, you can just easily label yourself as a number two driver, which I think he doesn’t want to be.”
Verstappen believes both McLaren drivers should remain free to race as the championship reaches its climax.
“For me, I know that I am equal on points with Oscar and a lot still needs to go right, but I think it should be like that,” he said.
Verstappen’s victory in Las Vegas, combined with both McLaren drivers’ disqualification, brought him back into title contention.
The 28-year-old knows Norris can secure the championship by outscoring both him and Piastri by two points in Qatar.
“It’s definitely a better chance than it was before so we take it,” Verstappen acknowledged.
“You need to also be aware that even if you win everything, you still need a bit of luck so we’ll see how that goes.”
Piastri confirmed earlier that McLaren had briefly discussed team orders favoring Norris but decided against them.
“We’ve had a very brief discussion on it and the answer is no,” the Australian driver revealed.
“I’m still equal on points with Max and I’ve got a decent shot of still winning it, if things go my way.” – AFP
