McLaren has reiterated that its primary objective has always been the constructors’ championship, not the drivers’ title, even as Lando Norris faced a setback during the Brazilian Grand Prix. Despite starting from pole position and with rival Max Verstappen starting 17th, Norris finished sixth after a challenging race marked by wet conditions, driving errors, brake lock-ups, and a poorly timed red flag. Verstappen capitalized on the situation, ultimately winning the race and extending his lead over Norris to 62 points with only three races left in the season.
Following the race, team principal Andrea Stella acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized that the outcome would not alter McLaren’s strategic approach. “In terms of the constructors’ championship, I don’t think it changes anything,” Stella stated. “It was always our priority. Supporting one driver over the other has always been secondary to maximizing the constructors’ championship.”
Stella downplayed the notion that the pressure of the championship battle affected Norris’s performance at Interlagos. He pointed out that both the driver and the team understood that being in contention for the title was an unexpected bonus. “When it comes to the drivers’ championship, I don’t think for Lando there was any particular pressure,” he explained. “We were enjoying this quest, even if it may have appeared otherwise from the outside.”
Looking ahead, Stella expressed confidence in the upcoming races, noting that the final two venues should favor their performance. “Mathematically we are still in the [drivers’] championship, but for Lando and Oscar, we will go into the next races aiming to win,” he said. He acknowledged that while the Las Vegas track may suit Ferrari, there is still everything to play for in the constructors’ standings.
Norris himself remained pragmatic about the situation, stating, “I did all I could today. Max won the race. Good on him, well done, but it doesn’t change anything for me.” He has consistently downplayed his championship aspirations, recognizing the challenges of overcoming a significant points deficit.
Despite Norris’s challenges in the drivers’ championship, McLaren managed to extend its lead over Ferrari in the constructors’ standings by seven points, now holding a 36-point advantage. This places the team in a strong position as they approach the final races, increasing the likelihood of a thrilling finish in Abu Dhabi.
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