Oscar Piastri went from reserve driver to race winner in record time. The Australian is building a case as the sport's next superstar.
Career trajectory:
- 2019: Formula Renault Eurocup champion
- 2020: Formula 3 champion
- 2021: Formula 2 champion
- Won three junior championships in three consecutive years. Only the third driver in history to achieve this. Source: Formula1.com.
- Made his F1 debut with McLaren in 2023.
- Won his first race within his first two seasons.
What makes him special:
- Racecraft. Piastri's wheel-to-wheel racing is mature beyond his experience level. His defensive driving and late-braking overtakes are reminiscent of young Verstappen.
- Adaptability. McLaren changed car concepts mid-season and Piastri immediately adjusted. Not all rookies can do that.
- Composure. In a sport where emotion costs points, Piastri is ice cold on the radio and in interviews.
The Norris dynamic: Piastri and Norris are teammates but inevitably rivals. Piastri was close to Norris on pace in his first full season, and the gap is narrowing. If McLaren has to choose a number one driver, the decision will not be straightforward.
Concerns:
- Limited F1 experience compared to peers. Verstappen, Leclerc, and Norris all have years more data.
- Has not yet shown the ability to drag a poor car to results. His McLaren has been competitive.
Sources:
- Formula1.com — career results
- McLaren — driver profile
- Autosport — junior formula records
Tell me I am not the only one.
Three junior championships in three years. That has basically never happened. The talent is undeniable. He just needs a car that can fight for titles.