P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lando Norris has said the idea Oscar Piastri will help him during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix is “stupid” given he starts P17 in Baku with his team-mate second-fastest in qualifying.
Lando Norris criticized the idea of McLaren using team orders during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as “stupid” following his early elimination from qualifying in Baku. Due to a yellow flag induced by Estaban Ocon, he had to abandon his final push lap in Q1, starting the race from P17. McLaren announced they would prioritize Norris on a case-by-case basis in his battle for the F1 title against Max Verstappen. Despite Oscar Piastri qualifying second, it is unlikely to impact the race. Norris emphasized the importance of strategy due to challenging overtaking conditions on the street circuit. He expressed hope for clean air but acknowledged the difficulties posed by traffic congestion. McLaren faced challenges in practice sessions, but Norris clarified it did not affect his qualifying performance. His early exit was attributed to lifting off due to yellow flags caused by Ocon’s crash.
