McLaren might be on the verge of a major shake-up, with F1 veteran Johnny Herbert hinting that Lando Norris could soon find his team’s focus shifting toward rookie sensation Oscar Piastri. Norris, who emerged as a serious title contender in 2024, has been McLaren’s lead driver in their uphill battle against Red Bull. But with only three races remaining, the 25-year-old trails championship leader Max Verstappen by a daunting 62 points—making Verstappen’s fourth consecutive title nearly inevitable in Las Vegas.
According to Herbert, if Norris is officially out of the title race by the Abu Dhabi finale, McLaren might already be preparing for a “changing of the guard.” The ex-F1 driver and FIA steward suggests that McLaren will likely lift team orders, giving Piastri full freedom to race for wins, which could redefine McLaren’s pecking order heading into 2025.
“If we go to Abu Dhabi and the championship is done, that will have already changed,” Herbert remarked, implying that McLaren’s allegiance could start to shift toward the younger Piastri before year’s end. “That will be letting Oscar be allowed to go out there and win if he can. The whole dynamic will swap over very quickly and continue into 2025.”
A Potential Challenge for Norris in 2025
Herbert warns that, if Piastri is given full racing privileges, he could soon pose a formidable challenge to Norris, especially as McLaren eyes a top spot in the Constructors’ standings. Though Norris has led the team’s impressive climb this season, he’s had to push himself harder than ever, with Piastri nipping at his heels and proving to be an incredibly capable contender.
“Oscar will be very difficult to beat, but Lando has upped his game when he’s had to,” Herbert said, acknowledging the 25-year-old’s impact on McLaren’s resurgence. Yet, as Piastri’s star continues to rise, Norris may face increased pressure and competition from within his own garage.
Eyes on Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi
With Norris’ title hopes fading after a tough Brazilian GP, the next two races will be pivotal. If Verstappen clinches the title in Las Vegas, McLaren might pivot its focus, setting up a fascinating rivalry between Norris and Piastri for the future.
In what could be a power shift within one of F1’s most iconic teams, McLaren fans may be witnessing the start of a new era. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes are on Woking to see how Norris and Piastri shape the team’s next chapter—and whether McLaren’s rising star will soon eclipse its seasoned contender.
