Photo: Race Pictures

Stella breaks down Norris and Piastri’s main strengths and weaknesses

10:51, 30 Nov

Updated: 10:53, 30 Nov

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byTobia Elia

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has pointed out the key strengths and weak spots in his two drivers.

"In the category of circuits of high grip I think Oscar is in his most natural way of driving the car"

- Oscar Piastri

The Italian focused first on Piastri, who returned to strong form in Qatar on a track that has historically suited him. The high-grip characteristics allowed him to drive comfortably, something he hadn’t been able to do on previous, more slippery circuits.

"Here in Qatar, we go back to the category of circuits with high grip, and in the category of circuits of high grip I think Oscar is in his most natural way of driving the car and he can really maximize the potential available," Stella said.

"While we have said before that in circuits like Mexico and Austin, in that case, you need to — especially in terms of braking and rotation of the car — start to slide the rear axle, it's almost a kind of different technique of driving an F1 car."

Photo: Race Pictures

Similarly, Stella highlighted that Norris thrives in low-grip conditions, a factor that has worked strongly in his favor in the recent rounds: "It's a technique that Oscar is developing, but actually is in the category where Lando excels."

How Norris can seal the title in Qatar

The Brit can clinch his first Formula 1 world championship in Qatar under a variety of scenarios, all depending on where Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen finish relative to him.

The Briton will start the race positioned between his two main title rivals, a spot that requires extra care to avoid any early incidents that could derail his championship bid. Among the three contenders, he clearly has the most to lose.

Here’s a breakdown of all the scenarios that could see Norris crowned world champion today.

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