P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren boss Andrea Stella has claimed the F1 Drivers’ title was “always secondary” to the team winning the Constructors’ Championship in the 2024 season.
The McLaren team, based in Woking, aimed for a championship double entering the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, with Lando Norris having an outside chance against Max Verstappen. Despite starting from pole position, Norris finished sixth as Verstappen won from 17th, significantly widening the points gap. Verstappen’s lead now sits at 62 points, putting him in a position to secure the title at the upcoming Las Vegas race. McLaren, however, gained a 36-point lead in the Constructors’ Championship with three races remaining. Team principal Stella emphasized McLaren’s focus on the Constructors’ title over individual driver support. Looking ahead, Stella expects a strong performance in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, with Ferrari potentially holding an advantage in Las Vegas. Despite recent setbacks, the team remains determined to maximize their points and prioritize the Constructors’ Championship over individual accolades.
