Tensions between McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris erupted early at the Singapore Grand Prix, setting the stage for a dramatic race won by George Russell.
The simmering rivalry between Norris and Piastri, who have been championship contenders all season, boiled over at the third corner on the opening lap. Norris, starting two places behind Piastri, executed a bold and aggressive move that forced contact between the two, sparking criticism from Piastri.
Norris’ attempt to overtake saw him clipping the rear of Max Verstappen’s Red Bull before colliding with Piastri’s McLaren. Despite the incident, both drivers managed to continue with minor damage, although tensions ignited on the team radio.
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Piastri openly questioned the fairness of Norris’ move and McLaren’s refusal to adjust their driver positions despite the collision. The stewards reviewed the incident but ultimately took no action. Meanwhile, McLaren chose not to swap their drivers, leaving Norris to finish third and Piastri fourth.
Max Verstappen finished just behind Norris in second place, keeping his slim championship hopes alive. Norris trails Piastri by 22 points in the drivers’ standings, with Verstappen further behind.
Despite the intra-team conflict, McLaren secured the constructors' championship for the second consecutive year — a triumph slightly overshadowed by the internal strife between its young stars.
Throughout the race, the rivalry was palpable. Piastri’s frustration was clear, particularly after a slow pit stop compounded his difficulties, dropping him further behind Norris. Meanwhile, George Russell dominated the race, cruising to his second victory of the season by over five seconds.
McLaren team principal Zak Brown will now face the delicate task of managing the fallout from the collision ahead of the next Grand Prix in Austin. Both Norris and Piastri voiced their views: Norris described the clash as “good racing,” while Piastri was less forgiving, lamenting the lack of respect and fairness shown.
As the season progresses, the spotlight will remain on McLaren’s internal battle, with the potential to reshape the title race in the remaining rounds.