P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren implemented team orders on a handful of occasions last year as it attempted to provide both drivers with equal opportunities.
Max Verstappen stated that he would not have followed McLaren’s team orders last year, likening it to “selling your soul.” The team ensured both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri had equal opportunity to win the championship, leading to controversial moments like at Monza where Piastri was told to let Norris pass. Verstappen expressed his disbelief at the order over team radio and said he would not have complied without a clear reason. Despite finishing just two points behind champion Norris, Verstappen mentioned various incidents throughout the season where the championship slipped away. He mentioned Kimi Antonelli’s mistake in Qatar but held no grudge, understanding that mistakes are part of the sport.
