Is McLaren’s Intra-Team Duel Comparable to the 2021 Title Fight?

New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) As the 2025 Formula 1 season reaches its midpoint, an exhilarating contest is unfolding, not between different teams, but within McLaren itself. Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are entangled in a fierce title chase, with just an eight-point difference after 12 races.

Former McLaren driver and F1 legend David Coulthard suggests that this internal battle may mirror the intensity of the memorable 2021 clash between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton – a rivalry where only one could emerge as champion.

Coulthard, who participated in 246 Grands Prix and achieved 13 victories, is thoroughly captivated by the Piastri-Norris contest and believes the young Australian’s current position is entirely justified.

“If it were half a World Championship, Oscar would have won,” Coulthard noted. “I don’t believe anyone could argue he hasn’t earned the lead – he was at the forefront before (the McLarens) collided in Canada. But if Lando turns the tables in the latter half of the season, he’s competing against a highly skilled third-year F1 driver.”

Piastri holds a slim eight-point edge, largely due to five victories compared to Norris’s four. However, as Coulthard observes, the true test of championship resilience is still ahead.

The contest between the two McLaren drivers brings to mind the fierce and controversial 2021 rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton. “It’s reminiscent of 2021, where opinions are still divided about what transpired… only one driver could claim victory. Both Max and Lewis raced like World Champions that year, but only one could secure the title.”

This sense of dual excellence, he asserts, is reflected in the relationship between Norris and Piastri, where both have demonstrated world-class capabilities – yet only one will ultimately wear the crown.

Despite the increasing tension, Coulthard praised McLaren’s approach to the rivalry thus far, stating the team has navigated the situation adeptly. “I believe McLaren have managed it exceptionally well. Both drivers are on the more composed side of competitive spirit, which likely eases the process.”

Nonetheless, he emphasized that moments like this may not happen again, urging both drivers to capitalize on the opportunity. “This might be their only chance to win a world title; we’re uncertain about what 2026 holds, so they must grasp the moment.”

Coulthard expressed admiration for how Piastri has progressed in his third year in F1. “That’s why I’m genuinely impressed with how Oscar has advanced this season. But Lando’s performance over the last two races is also showcasing his quality.”

He believes the final result will again reflect 2021: two worthy contenders, but only one trophy. “I predict it’s going to be one of those situations where both deserve it, but only one can take it.”

Coulthard was not taken aback by the on-track incident between Norris and Piastri in Canada. In fact, he anticipated it — having experienced it himself. “I foresaw the collision, because I’ve been in similar situations – I collided with Mika, just as he collided with me.”

Recalling his partnership with Mika Hakkinen at McLaren from 1996 to 2001, Coulthard remembered how inevitable such confrontations are when both drivers believe they can win. “It’s always the case that regardless of how close a team is, once both drivers have a chance to win, the dynamics become increasingly complicated.”

Despite McLaren's strength, Coulthard reminded fans that Max Verstappen, though 69 points behind Piastri, shouldn’t be dismissed – especially if Red Bull introduces significant upgrades. “You can’t count Max out,” he asserted, highlighting the Dutchman’s “stellar Qualifying performance” at Silverstone.

“For the championship, it’s clear that an upgrade is necessary to unlock additional performance. Given Red Bull’s current standing, it’s hard to envision the circuits in the second half of the season suddenly favoring them more than the first half.”

“It will require an upgrade from Red Bull to ensure consistency. Are they capable of achieving that? Absolutely. Have they done it previously? Yes. Is Max exceptional? Without a doubt.”