The equality among McLaren drivers is 'a risky endeavor.'

      "There’s no other way to defeat Verstappen"

      For championship leader Oscar Piastri, he does not see himself as McLaren’s primary driver. "Nope," the composed Australian responded when asked if his 22-point lead, which grew after teammate Lando Norris collided with him in Montreal, would lead to team orders and a driver hierarchy within McLaren. This sentiment is welcomed by Norbert Haug, the former Mercedes motorsport director who closely collaborated with the Woking-based outfit in the past. "I’m pleased they are allowing their drivers a fair chance to compete for the title," the German said. "I hope this continues because it's genuine motorsport, and that’s how it should be. They will have to navigate isolated events like what occurred in Canada. It might become challenging over time, but I trust Andrea Stella and Zak Brown can manage the situation effectively. Their current position should be seen as exemplary."

      On the other hand, former Haas team principal Gunther Steiner strongly disagrees. "McLaren needs a team order now," he was quoted as saying by Bild newspaper. "There’s no other way to surpass (Max) Verstappen. Internally, it’s certainly under discussion, but I think those in charge are reluctant to upset their drivers. They are hoping the problem resolves itself by one of the drivers being taken out of the title contention. But that’s a risky approach," Steiner warned. "McLaren must take action, or they will be overtaken."

      Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko appreciates seeing the McLaren drivers compete but expressed disappointment in Montreal that the 'wrong' driver in orange retired. "What I mentioned was that in a collision like that, the rear tire typically sustains damage," Marko explained to Osterreich newspaper. "However, Piastri was fortunate enough to continue. Eventually, his luck will run out too."

      In fact, Piastri dismissed the idea that his 22-point advantage over Norris is "healthy." "Your definition of healthy is much larger than mine," the 24-year-old told the reporter. "For me, I just want - and we all want - a fair chance, particularly in the drivers’ championship, because ultimately, it can only be one of us." Regarding rumors of behind-the-scenes discussions about a number 1 driver status, Piastri added: "I think the situation would need to change significantly for those conversations to happen. So no, I’m not inclined to engage in those talks at all."