'More Intelligent' Piastri Holds Mental Advantage Over Norris - Jones

      "In my opinion, he possesses all the necessary qualities."

      As Formula 1 resumes after its summer break, McLaren is preparing for a direct competition between its drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, for the 2025 world championship. The Australian and the Brit are separated by just 9 points at the top of the standings, with Max Verstappen no longer a serious rival and McLaren comfortably ahead in the constructors’ standings. The team asserts that both drivers will receive equal treatment under the so-called 'papaya rules.' However, German commentator Christian Danner mentioned to Ran that circumstances could influence this.

      "I believe the team has a very clear stance – the priority is for a McLaren driver to become champion. Who it is in the end is not of great importance," he stated. "Winning the Constructors’ Championship seems almost certain, and currently, no significant pressure is coming from outside. Presently, Red Bull and Max Verstappen are too weak for this. McLaren will only intervene if higher ambitions are in play. If Verstappen somehow returns to winning, the strategy may change."

      1980 world champion Alan Jones, who previously voiced his preference for fellow Australian Piastri, reinforced his views in recent comments made to German broadcasters RTL and ntv. "In my opinion, he has all the essential qualities to achieve great success in Formula 1," remarked the 78-year-old. "Occasionally, someone emerges who is successful regardless of their circumstances, and he is one of those individuals. He was successful in Formula 3, in Formula 2, and now he’s leading the World Championship."

      Jones believes Piastri’s mindset provides him an advantage over Norris. "There are drivers who seem to enjoy their time off-track more than their time in the race car. With him, it’s clear he is dedicated, he has a goal, and he will do whatever it takes to reach it. He is willing to do everything necessary to win a race, which is crucial."

      Regarding Norris, Jones reiterated his doubts. "In terms of mentality, Piastri holds an edge over Lando. I perceive Lando to be somewhat mentally weak. Any driver who comes out and acknowledges having even a minor mental issue has already lost before the race begins. You need to maintain intense focus, keep things private, and not disclose any secrets."

      Jones also suggested that Piastri might be tactically more astute within the team. "Perhaps he is wiser in that he stays on his side of the garage. He avoids engaging in team politics and is not very talkative. It’s possible he operates with more psychological acumen."