Max Verstappen has dismissed McLaren’s use of the term “Papaya Rules” for managing on-track behavior between teammates as “nonsense,” stating he would never entertain such phrasing within his own team environment.
What Are “Papaya Rules”?
The term was introduced publicly by McLaren at the 2023 Italian Grand Prix when Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri locked out the front row and subsequently raced closely. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella described the term as a guideline for their drivers to prioritize clean and respectful racing, particularly against their teammate:
“When the car is papaya [McLaren’s signature color], you take even extra care… We try and drive the race in synergy between our two drivers, rather than thinking my main competitor is my teammate.”
This strategy aims to minimize intra-team collisions and maximize results, especially given McLaren’s improved competitiveness.
Verstappen’s Take
Verstappen, speaking to Dutch broadcaster Viaplay, criticized the concept of such phrasing as overly complicated and unnecessary:
“This is another nonsense quote. If I heard something like that on the radio, I would tell my engineer to shut up.”
The Red Bull driver believes team orders and racing guidelines can be handled more directly without attaching elaborate labels.
McLaren’s Approach and Broader Impact
McLaren’s “Papaya Rules” garnered attention not only for their unique branding but also for their implications in ensuring harmony between Norris and Piastri. While some viewed it as an effective communication tool within the team, Verstappen’s reaction underscores a contrasting approach in the paddock—prioritizing simplicity over symbolism in managing teammates’ behavior.
Verstappen’s Philosophy on Team Orders
Verstappen, known for his no-nonsense attitude, often emphasizes direct communication with his team. His criticism reflects his preference for straightforward racing strategies, a hallmark of Red Bull’s approach under Christian Horner.
Whether McLaren’s innovative phrasing proves a trendsetter or remains a quirky experiment, Verstappen’s blunt dismissal highlights the range of opinions in F1 on managing team dynamics.
