Mekies Surprised by McLaren’s Safety Car Strategy

Mekies said the move was unexpected, especially considering the strategic advantage a pit stop under Safety Car usually offers. This decision has become a central talking point of the race weekend.

Safety Car Timing Ideal for Pit Stops

The Safety Car arose early due to an incident on lap 7, coinciding perfectly with the FIA’s 25-lap tyre stint limit — which would normally prompt teams to make a “free” pit stop and gain track position. All leading teams, including Red Bull, pitted, while McLaren notably did not, raising eyebrows across the paddock.

Mekies Reflects on Post-Race Clarity

While Mekies recognized that hindsight clarifies the mistake, he described the decision as a surprise at the moment. He speculated that McLaren feared rejoining in traffic and doubted the benefit outweighed potential risks. Mekies reinforced that from Red Bull’s perspective, the call made Verstappen’s path to victory much easier and altered the championship dynamics.

Context of McLaren’s Strategic Blunder

This Safety Car strategy error came on the heels of McLaren’s double disqualification in Las Vegas, further intensifying pressure on the team. Mekies considered McLaren’s choice a crucial turning point that rejuvenated Verstappen’s title chances, emphasizing the fine margins in championship battles where such decisions carry huge consequences.