McLaren's pit decision for Norris criticized after VSC in Madrid
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 6:00 AM
Last updated Sep 17, 2026
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McLaren's decision to pit Lando Norris during the Virtual Safety Car (VSC) period in Madrid has drawn criticism from analyst Jolyon Palmer. He stated that the choice contributed to losing a race that seemed within reach for Norris. The VSC was activated following Lance Stroll's mechanical failure, which left his car stationary for half a minute. McLaren's timing with the VSC played a significant role in the race outcome.
- •Jolyon Palmer critiques McLaren's strategy during the VSC.
- •Lando Norris was in contention for victory in Madrid.
- •The VSC resulted from Lance Stroll's car stopping on track.
- •Stroll's issue led to missed opportunities for McLaren.
- 6:00 AMYahoo Sports — Ex-F1 driver slams McLaren over Norris decision: "It made absolutely no sense"
"Jolyon Palmer has questioned McLaren’s decision to pit Lando Norris after the Virtual Safety Car ended at the Madrid Grand Prix, arguing the team failed to react to the race unfolding in front of them. Norris had built a six-second advantage over Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli before the VSC was deployed, leaving McLaren particularly exposed when the field’s pace was reduced.
"Former Renault F1 driver and F1 TV analyst Jolyon Palmer explains why McLaren pitting Norris after the VSC only "cemented" the loss of the race in Madrid.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 17, 2026, 6:00 AMEx-F1 driver slams McLaren over Norris decision: "It made absolutely no sense"
Jolyon Palmer has questioned McLaren’s decision to pit Lando Norris after the Virtual Safety Car ended at the Madrid Grand Prix, arguing the team failed to react to the race unfolding in front of them. Norris had built a six-second advantage over Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli before the VSC was deployed, leaving McLaren particularly exposed when the field’s pace was reduced.
- Formula1.com—'McLaren’s call to pit Norris after the VSC made no sense'
Former Renault F1 driver and F1 TV analyst Jolyon Palmer explains why McLaren pitting Norris after the VSC only "cemented" the loss of the race in Madrid.
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