McLaren endured a torrid afternoon at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on Sunday, and it all started with one incorrect decision.
McLaren was reminded of the importance of making their own luck after their strategy error at the Canadian Grand Prix led to a disastrous race for the team. Starting Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri on intermediate tires set off a chain of events that ultimately ruined their chances of success. Norris retired due to gearbox failure, while Piastri finished P11 after a penalty for a collision with Alex Albon. The decision to start on intermediates initially worked in McLaren’s favor, with Norris briefly leading the race, but they quickly fell back after switching to dry tires. The team’s difficulties were further compounded by Piastri’s incident with Albon at the hairpin. Running in the midfield added additional stress on the cars, contributing to Norris’ retirement due to overheating.
