P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Stella: Leclerc finished ahead of Norris on merit in F1 Australian GP
Third-placed Lando Norris believes McLaren could have overtaken Charles Leclerc in Melbourne with a different strategy. Team Principal Andrea Stella expressed that Ferrari’s SF-24 is faster than McLaren’s MCL60 and swap between Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri was to prevent a potential crash. Stella acknowledged the aggressive strategy but noted that Ferrari’s decision to pit helped them stay ahead. He mentioned McLaren is close to Ferrari and looks forward to upcoming upgrades. Stella clarified that the decision to swap drivers during Piastri’s home race was more about execution than strategy. Despite fresher tires, McLaren couldn’t catch Leclerc, proving Ferrari’s speed.
