Wet weather turned the closing lap of the 20‑lap sprint into a collision: Lando Norris chased Oscar Piastri into the inside of Turn 5, both cars spinning and Piastri’s MCL40 left spinning to the finish, dropping Norris to eighth.
Collision at Turn 5
The moment saw a two‑car spin that eliminated Piastri and inflicted severe rear damage on his vehicle, while Norris lost five positions.
Stewarding Decision
After reviewing the incident, stewards ruled no further action was necessary, arguing that “both drivers contributed to the collision and neither was wholly or predominantly to blame.”
Team Reaction
McLaren’s principal Andrea Stella expressed displeasure, insisting that “two McLarens making contact like that is simply not acceptable… team interest supersedes ego.”
Piastri later said the incident was avoidable and that both drivers apologized and moved on, noting the impact on points, workload, and repair costs.
Norris echoed the stewards’ assessment, admitting both he and Piastri had options to act differently.
When asked about the stewards’ view that Piastri also played a role, he responded that “trying to get each other penalties is not smart.”
Aftermath
McLaren must replace Piastri’s gearbox and repair the MCL40, a costly operation that strains the team’s financial resources and championship standing.
With the season still in full swing, Exeter is likely to tighten its internal Papaya Rules to prevent further intra‑team incidents.
Photo by Michael Potts / LAT images via Getty Images.
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