McLaren CEO Zak Brown has stated that the team will continue its existing competitive strategy between its two drivers, often referred to as “papaya rules,” despite public criticism and debate throughout the 2025 Formula 1 season. Brown clarified that fairness between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will remain a priority.
Oscar Piastri discussed what he learned from competing for the Formula 1 drivers’ championship in 2025. He said the season taught him about his performance both inside and outside the car and contributed to his understanding of how he competes under pressure. Piastri finished third in the championship standings.
The 2025 Formula 1 championship will be decided at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri enter the final weekend separated by narrow margins. Practice sessions have begun as teams prepare for the title decider.
Max Verstappen’s win in Qatar kept the 2025 F1 title fight alive and turned a strong McLaren weekend into a missed opportunity. Several drivers and teams left Lusail with momentum, while others lost points and confidence at a critical stage of the season.
McLaren fears that tyre durability issues seen at the Qatar Grand Prix could influence the title fight, with sharp gravel, rising pressures and unexpected vibrations creating unpredictable race conditions.
Max Verstappen qualified third in Qatar and says McLaren’s speed is so strong that matching their pace would require “a shortcut.” He must finish ahead of Lando Norris to keep the title race alive.
Four cars drop to the pit lane, Tsunoda starts ahead of Verstappen, and teams lean toward a medium-tyre sprint as clear skies set the tone for the night race.
Oscar Piastri won the Qatar sprint with ease, reducing his deficit to Lando Norris while Yuki Tsunoda supported Max Verstappen on lap one, took a penalty, and still secured fifth.












