Papayas' health more important than drivers' ambitions

MCLAREN boss Andrea Stella reiterated that team interests would trump those of individual drivers this season, after Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri finished second and third behind Max Verstappen at the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday.

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Stella faced questions over the team's strategy after McLaren missed out on the top step of the podium for the first time in three Formula One races this year. However, the Italian was quick to remind reporters that it is a race championship.

"We are here, first of all, to beat the other teams and put McLaren in a very strong position," Stella told reporters.

"When McLaren are in a strong position, then that's the best position for the two drivers to pursue their aspirations.

"This is very clear to the team, very clear to the drivers."

Piastri contacted the pit wall over the radio in the latter stages of the race, saying he felt he had the pace to overtake Verstappen, implying that Norris should be asked to let him pass.