MCLAREN EXPLAIN DECISIVE INTERMEDIATE TYRE CALL IN CANADA

McLaren's decision to start Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri on intermediate tires at the Canadian Grand Prix ultimately backfired, despite Norris briefly taking the lead. Team Principal Andrea Stella confirmed it was a group call, with both drivers agreeing, believing the damp Montreal track required the cautious approach. Piastri noted the circuit got "significantly wetter" before the race, and Stella emphasized the track was "greasy" and raining when the mandatory tire choice had to be made just minutes before the start.

Norris initially capitalized, rocketing ahead with superior grip. However, the rain quickly stopped, and two extra formation laps further dried the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. This shift negated McLaren's advantage, forcing both drivers into early pit stops for slicks and unraveling their race. While acknowledging it was the "wrong decision in hindsight," Norris maintained there were "valid reasons" at the time. McLaren will need to sharpen their wet-weather strategy calls as the championship progresses.