Norris: Andrea Stella, Zak Brown apologised for Zandvoort DNF

Norris reveals McLaren reaction to Zandvoort DNF

When two drivers are fighting for the Championship, every race weekend is of the upmost importance.

One mistake (as Piastri found out in Australia, and Norris in Canada) can have title-defining consequences.

Although seven points are what separate first and second, the implications of a title race mean that every weekend represents at least a 14-points swing.

Because of this, several Grand Prix this year (Silverstone, Hungary, Miami) have been consequential even in the absence of a DNF or incident.

At the same time, the dynamics change when one driver creates such a big advantage in the standings.

For Piastri, only a few race wins (alongside consistent P2 finishes) should be enough to clinch the title.

This means that Norris must strive to win as many races as possible, starting on Sunday in Monza.

Speaking in Italy, the British driver told the media that McLaren apologised for his retirement:

“It’s not Andrea’s fault, it’s not Zak’s fault. I think it was 60-something races without a technical failure, without any issues.

“I think that’s a record for ourselves, t’s something we’re pretty proud about.

“For that to happen now – that’s just being unlucky. It wasn’t a bad job by anyone.

“It was just various things coming together, and then just being unlucky.

“Andrea [Stella] and Zak [Brown] apologised… but it’s not their fault.

“They apologised because they feel like they have let me down, the same as I apologise when I feel like I let them down…

“You just can’t do anything about it. I can literally only look ahead to the next few races and then try and to do more than I’ve ever done.”

A simple equation heading into Monza

There is a temptation for Norris, much like fans and media outlets, to intensively analyse the Championship situation.

As the season gets closer to its conclusion, the numbers behind securing the title will become increasingly difficult to ignore.

For now, though, both Norris and Piastri are adamant they will focus on maximising one weekend at a time.

To some extent, there is an opportunity for the McLaren duo to make a statement going forward.

For Piastri, who will feel unlucky to have missed out on victory in Japan, Silverstone and Hungary, he will be eager to emphasise his superiority.

The Australian has a chance to stamp his authority on the title race and further extend his lead.

Norris’ situation is more dire, with the British driver under mounting pressure to stay within touching distance of the Australian.

Whilst the 25-year-old has been relatively level-headed about his retirement, the challenge in front of him is still significant.

What is true, however, is the narrative surrounding Norris should become slightly kinder after his retirement.

The general consensus is that Zandvoort has put the World Championship in Piastri’s hands.

Although this will be of little consolation to the British driver, he could at least benefit from less intense expectations externally.