P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren has explained its strategy error in F1’s Qatar GP that opened the door for Max Verstappen to grab a win that takes the three-way title fight all the way to the final round
McLaren admitted to making a strategy error in the Qatar Grand Prix, allowing Max Verstappen to snatch the win and keep the title fight alive until the final round in Abu Dhabi. Oscar Piastri was leading when the safety car came out on lap seven, prompting most drivers to pit for the first time, while McLaren’s decision to stay out proved costly. McLaren’s team principal acknowledged the mistake, stating they did not expect everyone else to pit. Verstappen’s victory leaves him 12 points behind Lando Norris going into the season finale, with Piastri a further four points adrift. Despite the threat from Verstappen, McLaren will not implement team orders to protect Norris, keeping both drivers’ championship hopes alive.
