Thu Sep 12 16:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Piastri to Race Norris, but Will Help in Title Push

**Baku, Azerbaijan** – McLaren driver Oscar Piastri has clarified his position on team orders following the team’s decision to support Lando Norris’s title challenge.

While acknowledging the need to help Norris close the gap on championship leader Max Verstappen, Piastri insists he will not be automatically yielding at every race.

“The main point is that it’s not purely going to be me pulling over for Lando at every single race,” Piastri told reporters in Baku. “We want to be rewarded for a good performance, so we need to keep discussing how to manage these situations.”

McLaren’s decision to adopt team orders comes after Norris closed the gap on Verstappen, who has dominated the past season. However, the move has sparked debate, with Piastri stating, “Selfishly as a driver, team orders are not fun.”

Despite his reservations, Piastri recognizes the bigger picture. “I race for a team that’s given me my opportunity in F1,” he said. “I have gratitude for that, and we’re trying to achieve both championships.”

The team is yet to confirm specific scenarios where team orders will be implemented, but it’s clear that Piastri will be free to race against Norris in certain instances, ensuring both drivers have the opportunity to demonstrate their potential and contribute to McLaren’s success.

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