The Formula 1 world is on high alert after Martin Brundle, former F1 driver and renowned Sky Sports commentator, delivered a blistering analysis of McLaren’s team orders during the recent Grand Prix weekend. Brundle warned that the internal tension between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could erupt into a full-scale crisis, threatening not only their teammate relationship but also the entire team’s morale.

“McLaren are playing a dangerous game,” Brundle declared during his post-race breakdown. “The favoritism, the inconsistent instructions—it’s creating an environment that could backfire spectacularly.”

The controversy ignited after McLaren issued a controversial team order, instructing Piastri to hold position behind Norris in the closing laps of the Spanish Grand Prix despite having fresher tires and seemingly better pace. The call has since come under intense scrutiny, with fans, pundits, and former drivers questioning the logic behind the decision.

Brundle didn’t mince words:

“You can’t expect two ultra-competitive drivers to just sit back when one clearly has the pace. This isn’t just about one race—this could shatter trust between teammates and destroy the chemistry that McLaren has worked so hard to build.”

Insiders have hinted at growing frustration within Piastri’s camp, with the young Australian driver believed to be disappointed at the perceived lack of equal treatment. While Norris remained diplomatic in his post-race interviews, he acknowledged that “some conversations” were needed behind the scenes.

Brundle’s analysis paints a grim picture if McLaren doesn’t address the issue swiftly. “If this tension festers, you’re looking at a season full of collisions, ignored orders, and public drama,” he warned. “And worst of all, it risks alienating fans who have embraced this exciting young duo.”

McLaren, who entered the 2025 season with renewed optimism and competitive pace, now faces a massive internal challenge. The dynamic between Norris and Piastri has been one of the most promising pairings on the grid, but it is built on mutual respect and balance—something that team orders are now putting at serious risk.

Team principal Andrea Stella has defended the decision, saying, “We made the call that gave us the best shot at points. It wasn’t about favoritism—it was about strategy.” However, critics argue that such calls, if repeated, could erode the very foundation of trust within the garage.

Formula 1 fans have taken to social media in force, with hashtags like #LetThemRace and #McLarenDrama trending globally. Many are calling for the team to rethink its approach before the situation escalates further.

As the F1 season heats up, all eyes will be on McLaren—not just for their pace on the track, but for how they manage one of the most explosive team dynamics in the paddock. If Brundle’s prediction holds true, the fallout could be monumental.