Piastri is doing much better this time at his home race in Melbourne compared to last year. Back then, it was only his third race in Formula 1, and the team he drove for, McLaren, was having a hard time with a car that wasn’t competitive.
In his first season, he took things slow on Fridays, focusing on improving throughout the weekend. But this season, he’s been quick right from the start. He finished eighth in Bahrain and fourth in Jeddah.
McLaren’s boss, Brown, is impressed with Piastri’s progress. He said, “He keeps getting better and better. It’s only been two races, but it looks like he’s no longer a rookie. He’s fast, doesn’t make many mistakes, and is pushing hard. Our team couldn’t ask for more. Having such a close competition between him and Norris is great for us.”
Brown also noticed that Piastri seems more relaxed this year in Melbourne compared to last year. He said, “Last year was tough for him, especially coming to his home race as a rookie with a not-so-great car. But now, with a year of experience and a better car, he’s enjoying it more. He’s growing up and becoming even more confident. This will surely make him perform even better.”
McLaren didn’t score any points in the first two races last year, and they were at the bottom of the championship standings. But this time, things are looking up.
Brown said, “We’re in a much better position now. Last year, we got our first points in Melbourne, and even then, it was mostly due to luck. But now, the team is doing great. We’ve improved a lot since the second half of last year. The competition is tough, but we’re ready to keep pushing forward. Our drivers are doing a fantastic job, and there’s a good atmosphere in the team. I’m excited to see what the rest of the season brings.”
Also read: Oscar Piastri Gears Up For Thrilling Homecoming At Formula One Australian Grand Prix
