After the disqualification of both McLarens at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Max Verstappen’s World Championship chances have increased dramatically. Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher is now demanding a stable order.
If Ralf Schumacher has his way, McLaren will have to throw away its papaya rules before the last two racing weekends in Formula 1 in order not to gamble away the drivers’ title that was believed to be secure for a long time. He demanded in the interview RTL now: “I’m excited. From my point of view, Norris should now go first and Piastri must help him.”
This season, McLaren “often stood in the way” of allowing its two drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to drive freely with the internally proclaimed “Papaya Rules”. Since there are only two races left to complete and Lando Norris’ lead over Max Verstappen has shrunk to 24 points, the team can now afford “no more mistakes.”
With a view to the upcoming Grand Prix in Qatar, the “Sky” expert noted: “Overtaking in Formula 1 is difficult and especially in Qatar because there are a lot of long corners. Qualifying has to be good accordingly.” Here Norris has been ahead in each of the last three races.
Ralf Schumacher: Lando Norris becomes world champion
Ralf Schumacher doesn’t believe that the Brit is losing his lead over Max Verstappen or Oscar Piastri. On the contrary: in order for the reigning world champion to still have a chance, Norris would have to miss Qatar.
“I personally believe that there is a very good chance that the decision will be made in favor of McLaren in Qatar. Max can be quick there, but McLaren – due to the warmer temperatures – will be significantly stronger than they were now,” said the former Formula 1 driver: “Accordingly, I’m happy for Max, but I don’t think it will happen this year.”
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Norris, who is “in a great mood at the moment”, will ultimately become world champion, according to the 50-year-old’s tip.