McLaren plans championship duel between Piastri, Norris

McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are taking their close championship battle in stride, with both drivers and team leadership downplaying any internal rivalry as the Formula 1 season heads to the Miami Grand Prix. Piastri has made a strong start, winning three of the first five races and leading Norris by 10 points, while Norris, last year's championship runner-up, remains confident in his ability to close the gap, emphasizing that it's still early in the 24-race season. Team principal Zak Brown has stated that McLaren will continue to treat both drivers equally unless circumstances dictate otherwise, allowing them to race freely. The dynamic has drawn outside commentary, including former champion Alan Jones labeling Norris 'mentally weak,' a claim Piastri refuted by stressing that each driver has their own natural approach to handling pressure and emotions. Both drivers have expressed mutual respect, with Piastri enjoying his current form but focusing more on performance than standings, and Norris motivated by his past success in Miami and determined to improve. The team appears unified, with no indication of friction as both drivers pursue championship ambitions.