Since Piastri’s dip after the Singapore Grand Prix, McLaren's handling of its drivers has been a re-emerging topic which saw the Woking-based team’s decisions questioned by paddock insiders and fans alike, with some suggesting the team had thrown its support behind Norris’ title bid in detriment of Piastri’s, a claim that has been time and time again dismissed by McLaren’s leadership.

After the British driver secured the title in Abu Dhabi, Piastri’s engineer Tom Stallard’s conversation with the Australian driver was interrupted by McLaren CEO Zak Brown.

"What a season, what a season,” Brown began. “You're a star. Seven wins. We love ya. We'll do it again next year. Thank you Oscar for everything you've done. What a year.”

Moments later the American CEO interrupted the conversation again. "Oscar, very proud of you. Awesome. What a team player. We go again next year. See you on the podium," he added.

Former F1 champion Nico Rosberg, whilst understanding of Brown’s emotionality after securing McLaren’s first double title since 1998, urged more empathy was required.

"That's his most horrible moment in his racing career," Rosberg said of Piastri’s title loss on Sky Sports F1. "Maybe Zak could have had a little more empathy there, rather than celebrating. He could have said, 'Next year will be your year,' but it's difficult for Zak because he's so ecstatic at the same time," the former Mercedes drivers concluded.

During a live interview on talkSPORT Brown was asked about an alleged preferential treatment of Norris. Read the American CEO's reaction here.

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