Lando Norris Apologizes After Costly Late-Race Crash with Teammate Piastri at Canadian GP

McLaren's Lando Norris took full responsibility for a dramatic late-race incident with teammate Oscar Piastri during the closing stages of the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix, bringing an end to what had been a tense but promising race weekend for the British driver.

Collision at the Hairpin

With just a handful of laps remaining, Norris was closing in on Piastri—who was running fourth and chasing Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli. Attempting a late-braking move into Turn 10, Norris dived to the inside but ran wide on exit, sparking a drag race between the two McLaren drivers toward the final chicane.

As Piastri defended his position and exited the corner compromised, Norris seized the opportunity to pounce. However, in doing so, he clipped the rear of Piastri's car, damaging his front wing and careening into the pit wall. The impact forced Norris into retirement just three laps from the finish.

Immediate Accountability

Norris didn't shy away from the incident, immediately acknowledging fault over team radio:
"It's all my bad, all my fault. Unlucky, sorry. Stupid from me."

He later extended his apology publicly, speaking directly to reporters and ensuring that Piastri and the team knew he owned the mistake.

Piastri Maintains Position

Despite the collision, Oscar Piastri was able to continue and secure a fourth-place finish. The Australian driver, currently leading the championship standings, avoided major damage and kept his composure through to the checkered flag.

Intra-Team Tensions Rise

The clash between the McLaren drivers adds a new layer of complexity to an already intense team dynamic. Both Norris and Piastri are in the thick of the 2025 title fight, and with every point critical, such incidents risk undermining McLaren's push for both championships.

While Norris's accountability has been praised, the incident underscores the high stakes and fine margins of intra-team racing at the sharp end of the grid.