McLaren says Lando Norris challenging its hold position order in Formula 1’s Qatar Grand Prix was normal because it is protocol for drivers to question team instructions.
Norris had emerged after the final stops behind team-mate Oscar Piastri, as the pair looked set for yet another podium double. But amid concerns that, if they raced each other, it could cost valuable time and potentially open the door for fourth-placed George Russell to come through, McLaren intervened to call off the fight. It came on the team radio to tell Norris to not challenge Piastri ahead. 'We're going to hold position,' messaged the team. 'Bring it home.
We ask drivers to challenge us.' Norris was not the only one who questioned the orders, because Piastri also had not anticipated McLaren intervening in such a way. 'I was a little bit surprised, to be honest,' he said. 'I would have accepted it either way. But obviously, there were a lot of concerns about tyres and track limits and stuff. But I think getting second and third for the team was the most important thing.
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