Andrea Stella has defended the decision to let Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri race each other in the closing stages of the Italian Grand Prix, despite the tense radio messages and a moment where Norris ran onto the grass at Curva Grande.
Stella explained that with both cars on identical tyres and pace, there was no need to interfere. "We thought there was no need to interfere with the normal development of the race. We let them race," he said. He added that Max Verstappen was faster but got caught in the slipstream battle, which allowed the McLaren duo to close in.
The decision ultimately left Norris fourth and Piastri fifth, with neither able to challenge the Red Bull ahead. Stella acknowledged the team would review the battle to see if it cost them a chance to attack Verstappen, but he downplayed the grass moment, saying it looked more benign on review.
Both drivers remained relaxed after the race. Piastri described the fight as strong, while Norris backed away from his initial radio outburst. The team's unity seems intact, and the focus now shifts to the next rounds.
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