The McLaren Formula 1 team is maintaining its established "papaya rules" for its drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, despite a recent on-track incident at the Canadian Grand Prix. Piastri confirmed this ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, stating that the rules remain "the same as always," ensuring that both drivers are still free to race each other.
The incident in question occurred at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, where Norris collided with the back of Piastri's car while battling for fourth place. The contact resulted in Norris's retirement from the race, while Piastri was able to continue, ultimately finishing fourth and extending his lead in the championship standings to 22 points over Norris.
Following the Canadian Grand Prix, there was speculation about whether McLaren might alter its approach to managing its drivers on the track, particularly given that they are now directly competing for the championship. However, Piastri's remarks have dispelled any suggestions of a change in policy.
"Obviously, what happened in Canada wasn't ideal, but we're still free to race," Piastri explained. "We're still fighting for a championship each, so we'll keep going racing and make sure that obviously we don't come into contact again."
The "papaya rules," as defined by McLaren CEO Zak Brown, dictate that the drivers should "race him [your teammate] hard, race him clean, don't touch." This philosophy emphasizes allowing the drivers to compete fiercely while maintaining a level of respect and avoiding unnecessary contact that could compromise the team's overall performance.
Piastri emphasized that the incident in Canada was addressed swiftly and professionally within the team. "We spoke about it honestly before we even got back to the team," he said. "Lando put his hands up and apologised. So, it's all good and I'm looking forward to going racing again." Norris also took full responsibility for the collision.
McLaren's commitment to allowing its drivers to race each other reflects a broader approach of fostering a competitive environment within the team. Piastri believes this is the "correct approach". Before the season began, both drivers agreed that fairness was a top priority. While acknowledging the inherent challenges in managing two drivers vying for the same championship, Piastri sees it as "a good problem to have in some ways."
The dynamic between Piastri and Norris has been a key factor in McLaren's success this season. The team has secured seven wins out of ten races. The Canadian Grand Prix was the first real flashpoint between the pair.
Piastri also downplayed any need for preferential treatment at this stage of the championship. "I just want, and we all want to have a fair opportunity [while] trying to win both championships," he said. "Especially in the drivers' championship, because it ultimately can only be one of us. I think the situation has to change dramatically to start having those conversations. They're a very long way away at the moment."
As the Formula 1 season progresses, the relationship between Piastri and Norris will continue to be closely watched. With both drivers in contention for the championship, maintaining a balance between competition and collaboration will be crucial for McLaren's pursuit of both the drivers' and constructors' titles.
