Jul.26 (GMM) Oscar Piastri is tightening his hold on the 2025 world championship after dismantling teammate Lando Norris in Friday’s running at Spa.
The McLaren driver topped both sole practice and sprint qualifying, prompting Auto Motor und Sport to declare that Piastri “dismantled Norris” in Belgium so far.
It’s a strong start to the weekend from the 24-year-old Australian, who reclaimed momentum after losing the British GP win to a controversial FIA penalty.
Norris, meanwhile, is still recovering from a bizarre off-track injury sustained in the hours after his Silverstone victory.
As he turned to show his trophy to fans on the opposite side of the pitwall, a cameraman slipped and struck Norris square on the nose with a television camera – leaving the Brit bloodied and requiring stitches.
It was his second nose injury in as many seasons, having cut the same spot with broken glass while partying in Amsterdam during King’s Day in 2024.
“This time my nose was repaired more professionally than back then,” Norris joked, according to the Dutch publication Formule 1.
“But both incidents are great memories for me. So when I look in the mirror and want to think of something great, I just look at my nose. That’s a good thing.”
Despite the humour, Norris admits Piastri is the more naturally comfortable driver in the 2025 McLaren.
“Do I feel more confident that I can produce more performances like that? Yes,” he said. “Do I feel as good as last season and am I performing consistently at the same level? I still don’t think so.”
“I feel more of a threat now to Oscar, yes,” Norris added. “But where I am now, where the car is, and how I handle the car, it’s still not at the level I want.”
The McLaren duo are now in a head-to-head battle for the title, with Max Verstappen no longer in realistic championship contention. The team has so far insisted on driver equality, but the pressure is building.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, who was once team boss at Ferrari during its strict number 1 driver era, believes McLaren’s current balance will be tested.
Asked by Corriere della Sera if the Piastri-Norris dynamic is a “soft duel,” Domenicali said: “Yes, but sooner or later one will push the other out.”
“McLaren is preparing for that moment. Letting them race isn’t for everyone. I say this because I’ve been there – when I was in that role, I didn’t do it that way.
“McLaren also teaches us that in difficult times, you shouldn’t despair. If you have the right people and tools, things change quickly.”
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