Sep.8 (GMM) Max Verstappen stormed to a dominant victory from pole at Monza, but the spotlight quickly shifted to McLaren’s handling of its two title contenders.
The Dutchman, no longer a serious factor in the championship beyond mathematics, ended McLaren’s recent winning streak with a commanding drive. But behind him, Lando Norris triggered boos from the ‘tifosi’ after benefitting from a late-race ‘papaya rules’ team order to swap positions.
Piastri, leading only because Norris lost time in a botched pitstop, initially resisted over the radio. “We said a slow pit stop was part of racing, so I don’t know what has changed,” the Australian protested.
Once about to head onto the podium, however, his tune changed for the media.
“A little ‘in-chi-dent’ at the end, but that’s ok,” he laughed.
On the podium, Norris was jeered despite moving a few points closer to Piastri in the title fight. “I don’t know why,” he said. “I heard them. I hear the cheers louder than the boos, and that’s the most important.”
Norris also dismissed the notion of special “papaya rules” benefitting him.
“There are no papaya rules anymore,” he smiled to DAZN. “We never had them. The main thing is fairness.
“We don’t care what’s been done in the past – we do what we think is right.”
Asked how long McLaren’s ‘rules of engagement’ document is, he replied: “One page – I don’t think it’s even one page.”
Piastri accepted the team’s authority but hinted at lingering frustration. “I said what I had to say on the radio,” he admitted. “And once I got the second request, then I’m not going to go against the team.
“I think there’s a lot of people to protect and a culture to protect outside of just Lando and I. The radio call kind of says enough. I’m sure we’ll discuss it again.”
Norris, however, was clear. “The team is the priority. The team is number one, then the drivers are second. That’s how it works.
“Normally, when you see teams who don’t have enough respect for the team and the opportunities the team gives, it doesn’t normally last long.”
Verstappen himself laughed when told on the radio of the orchestrated swap. “I know you guys want a fun answer on that,” he told reporters afterwards, “but it’s not my problem.”
Later, he confided to Viaplay in his native tongue: “In my opinion, a bad pitstop can happen, just like an engine failure or a driver’s own mistake. That’s racing.
“So yes, I had to laugh a little about Oscar having to give up the position. I’ll leave it at that.”
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff warned McLaren may have created a dangerous precedent. “I think we’ll get an answer to what the right decision was later in the season when things get heated,” he said.
But team principal Andrea Stella was unrepentant.
“It’s not about right or wrong,” he told Sky Italia. “It’s about our philosophy and how we want to go about our racing. It had nothing to do with Lando’s technical retirement at Zandvoort.”
McLaren could wrap up the constructors’ crown in Baku.
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES