P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Oscar Piastri had to deal with the introduction of papaya rules on McLaren’s route to its first F1 constructors’ title since 1998.
Oscar Piastri stated that his goal this year is to earn more points to prevent McLaren from implementing team orders. Last season, he and teammate Lando Norris faced media scrutiny over team orders while leading McLaren to its first constructors’ title since 1998. McLaren introduced “papaya rules,” alluding to team orders, due to Norris not following instructions in Hungary. The phrase signaled gentle racing before stricter team orders were enforced following a near-collision in Monza. Ending the season with Norris receiving preferential treatment motivated Piastri to aim for a stronger position in the drivers’ standings this year to avoid similar situations. Despite external hype, Piastri clarified that McLaren had control over the internal use of team orders, downplaying their significance to the press. He highlighted the need for improved execution and decision-making within McLaren, pointing out that team orders were scrutinized more by the media than necessary.
