A critical strategic misstep by McLaren handed Max Verstappen and Red Bull a pivotal victory at the Qatar Grand Prix, ensuring the drivers’ championship will be decided at the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi.
While Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris started strongly for McLaren, the race turned on an early Safety Car period. When the majority of the field, including Verstappen, pitted for fresh tires, McLaren opted to keep both its drivers on track. This decision proved costly, as it forced the team into a compromised tire strategy for the remainder of the race.
Verstappen, now on a superior tire plan, managed his race flawlessly from the front, building a commanding lead. Piastri drove a resilient race to secure second place, but was unable to challenge for the win. Norris, further hampered by the strategy, could only recover to fourth position after a late charge.
The result dramatically tightens the championship standings. Norris retains the lead, but his advantage over the now surging Verstappen has been slashed to just twelve points, setting the stage for a direct showdown at the Yas Marina Circuit.
In post-race comments, the McLaren team acknowledged the error. Team Principal Andrea Stella stated the decision not to pit during the Safety Car was reviewed and ultimately incorrect, costing the team a potential victory and podium finish. Both Piastri and Norris expressed disappointment but emphasized the need to regroup for the final race.
A jubilant Verstappen praised his team’s perfect strategic call, which has reignited his title defense. “We made the right call as a team and we stay in the fight to the end,” said the Red Bull driver. “It’s all possible now.”
The outcome transforms the season finale into a high-stakes duel, with the destiny of the championship firmly in the hands of the two leading contenders.