McLaren Give Piastri Controller That's Not Plugged In

WENDELL HUSSEY | Cadet | CONTACT

If there had been any doubts that McLaren had a favourite child, the Qatar Grand Prix has dispelled them.

This comes after younger sibling Oscar Piastri was given a controller that wasn't even plugged in when he had a chance to win the race.

The classic stitch up came in the 2nd last race of the Formula 1 season, where Piastri was left floundering.

What has been labelled a 'poor strategy decision' saw the two McLaren's not pit during a safety car lap despite everyone else pulling in.

The decision enabled Verstappen to make a pit stop for a fresh set of tyres without losing significant track position and go on and win the race.

Although the title race is still live, Piastri has been left with a lot to do heading into the final Mario Kart of the season - needing to win or come second and Lando to finish 6th or 10th respectively.

McLaren have moved to defend the decision to give Piastri a controller that wasn't plugged in by saying they did the same to Lando.

"We treat both our kids equally okay," said McLaren, who despite apoligising to Piastri after the race have definitely favoured the other son all season long.

"It was an honest mistake okay."

"And now Lando just needs to finish in the top 5 to guarantee a win."

More to come.