McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has outlined the key determinants in the ongoing battle for supremacy between the team’s drivers vying for the individual championship crown. McLaren’s dominant performance in the current season has virtually secured the constructors’ championship, with a substantial 268-point lead over closest rivals Ferrari after just 13 out of 24 races. While teams are shifting focus to developing their 2026 cars under new regulations, McLaren’s lead seems insurmountable barring unforeseen circumstances.
The spotlight now shifts to the drivers’ title race, with Max Verstappen’s chances dwindling, leaving McLaren’s duo to contend for top honors. Lando Norris showcased promising form with consecutive wins in Austria and Silverstone, closing in on championship leader Oscar Piastri. However, Piastri’s recent victory at Spa-Francorchamps has reestablished his dominance, setting the stage for an intense duel between the McLaren drivers for the rest of the season.
Stella commended both drivers for their exceptional performances, emphasizing the razor-thin margin that could determine the eventual champion. He highlighted the importance of precision and flawless execution, citing past instances where minor errors had significant repercussions on race outcomes. Stella expressed confidence in McLaren’s operational excellence and reliability, aiming to empower the drivers to shape their destiny in the quest for the Drivers’ World Championship.
Formula 1 enthusiasts can enjoy live coverage of all sessions with Sky’s new Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, offering substantial savings and additional perks like access to over 100 TV channels, Netflix, and Discovery+. Stella acknowledged the challenges faced by Norris during the Safety Car restart, attributing the outcome to a combination of circuit characteristics and execution, underscoring the critical role of flawless performance in the high-stakes championship battle.