Oscar Piastri made a stunning start at the 2024 Brazilian GP Sprint, clinching the pole position and leading for a good part of the race. However, a strategic decision from the team led him to give up the lead to his teammate Lando Norris, ultimately allowing the Brit to take the victory. The 24-year-old explained that the team did what it was supposed to do to win the championship.

In September, McLaren acknowledged that while both drivers were at their peak, Lando Norris was the closest title contender to Max Verstappen. Team principal Andrea Stella stated they would prioritize Norris over Oscar Piastri, acknowledging the challenge of choosing a driver between them. Later, Norris praised Piastri’s performance, emphasizing that the team made the necessary decision to improve their championship chances.

Oscar deserved it today, but we’ve done what we had to do with our pursuit of the two Championships. We executed it very well and I’m thankful for his support. A positive job as a team today.

The car has great pace this weekend and I felt good out there. I think we were strong but it’s difficult to judge in a Sprint when everyone is looking at how much to manage and how much to push. Lando Norris saidThe woking-based squad celebrated a remarkable 1-2 finish at the Brazilian sprint, with Norris taking P1 thanks to team orders.

He praised the MCL38 for its impressive pace throughout the race, highlighting the exceptional driving skills of both him and Piastri. Lando Norris: A positive job as a team today. The car has great pace this weekend and I felt good out there.

I think we were strong but it’s difficult to judge in a Sprint when everyone is looking at how much to manage and how much to push. — Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) November 2, 2024RELATEDRed Bull puts bizarre accusation on McLaren and rivals over alleged tire pressure trickLando Norris expressed disappointment for fans due to the heavy rains at qualifyingBrazil is known for its dynamic climate which can lead to sudden and heavy rainfall at any time. The Interlagos circuit, where the Brazilian Grand Prix is held, is particularly open to these weather conditions.

Lando Norris (via IMAGO)Lando Norris expressed disappointment about the cancellation of qualifying at Interlagos due to this rain. He acknowledged that it was unfair for the fans who were looking forward to the qualifying session. It’s a disappointing afternoon for the fans with Qualifying not going ahead but I’m looking forward to a strong performance tomorrow.

Lando Norris expressedNorris: It’s a disappointing afternoon for the fans with Qualifying not going ahead but I’m looking forward to a strong performance tomorrow. — Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) November 2, 2024RELATEDChristian Horner defends ‘hard-skinned’ Max Verstappen over FIA fiascoNorris has a good opportunity to claim points and close the gap with Max Verstappen, who will be starting from the back of the grid due to the penalty received for installing a new engine. Currently, the Briton trails the Red Bull driver by 45 points.