Ralf Schumacher has called on McLaren to throw its weight behind Lando Norris in the F1 drivers' championship, with only two rounds remaining.
After the two MCL39s were disqualified from the Las Vegas Grand Prix, the British driver holds a 24-point lead over Oscar Piastri in the standings.
However, Max Verstappen is now on equal points to his team-mate, and within striking distance, having originally been 42 points adrift of Norris before the double papaya exclusion.
It adds significant jeopardy to the situation, with 58 points up for grabs across the sprint weekend in Qatar and the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
As such, the German believes now is the time for the Woking-based squad to turn its attention to Norris, giving the slim hopes Piastri has of landing a maiden crown.
"I'm curious to see what happens," the former Jordan, Williams and Toyota driver told RTL. "In my view, Norris should now be given priority, and Piastri needs to support him."
McLaren has stated on numerous occasions that it will not give one driver preferential treatment over the other, so long as both are in the title fight, so it is unlikely to waver on that stance now, despite the associated risk.
Nonetheless, Schumacher still believes Norris will prevail, with or without concentrated backing from his team, citing the "great form" he is in.
The six-time grand prix winner highlighted how critical qualifying will be at the Lusail International Circuit on the weekend, with the McLaren driver on a run of three successive pole positions.
"Overtaking in Formula 1 is difficult, especially in Qatar, because of the many long, sweeping corners. Therefore, qualifying has to be spot on," he added.
"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 this year.
"Accordingly, while I'm happy for Max, I don't think it will happen this year."
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