McLaren has confirmed its commitment to a strict policy of equal treatment for its drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, for the upcoming Formula 1 season. This approach will continue despite the strategy nearly derailing the team’s championship ambitions last year.
During the 2025 campaign, McLaren fielded the most competitive car for much of the season but adhered to internal guidelines—often referred to as the “papaya rules”—which allowed Norris and Piastri to race freely without team orders. While praised for its sporting integrity, the policy drew scrutiny as the drivers frequently took points from each other. This enabled Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to mount a late title challenge, ultimately finishing just two points behind Norris at the final race in Abu Dhabi.
Ahead of the new season, Team Principal Andrea Stella reaffirmed the philosophy, stating that fairness, integrity, and equal opportunity remain core principles for the squad. “These values are fundamental—for the team, for Lando, and for Oscar,” Stella said. “They are not only confirmed but strengthened.”
Stella acknowledged that favoring one driver earlier in the season might have secured the drivers’ championship sooner. However, after a thorough review, the team concluded that its overall approach was correct and will be maintained, with only minor procedural adjustments planned for greater efficiency.
McLaren is set to reveal its new car, the MCL40, on February 9 in Bahrain. Despite significant regulatory changes for 2026, Stella expressed strong confidence in the team’s ability to defend both the constructors’ and drivers’ titles. He highlighted the organization’s growth in capability and culture since he took leadership in 2023, describing the current outfit as the strongest he has witnessed.
“We enter 2026 in the strongest position I have seen,” Stella noted. “We remain very confident that our collective capabilities and how we apply them will be key to long-term success.”