Schumacher tells McLaren to make major Norris decision after disqualification

The former F1 driver, speaking via RTL, suggested the Woking-based outfit would have to prioritise the championship leader ahead of Piastri after the championship battle took a new twist following their double disqualification in Las Vegas.

"I'm curious to see what happens. In my view, Norris should now be given priority, and Piastri needs to support him,” Schumacher said.

Further buttressing his claim, the 50-year-old highlighted the difficulty of overtaking at the Lusail circuit in Qatar.

"Overtaking in Formula 1 is difficult, especially in Qatar, because of the many long, sweeping corners. Therefore, qualifying has to be spot on,” he concluded.

Norris had edged closer to his maiden drivers’ title with his second-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. However, a post-race disqualification over a technical infringement relating to plank wear meant he, alongside teammate Piastri, were disqualified from the race.

The disqualification adds another twist to the drivers’ title fight, with Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen now only 24 points adrift of Norris.

Despite the blow to Norris’ title hopes in Las Vegas, Schumacher remains confident the British driver will claim the drivers’ championship.

The former Williams Racing driver turned broadcaster predicted it could even be decided at the Qatar Grand Prix.

"Personally, I believe there's a very good chance it will be decided in Qatar in McLaren's favour. Max can be fast there, but McLaren – due to the warmer temperatures – will be significantly stronger than they were earlier this year," he said.

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