Beginner’s luck? Not for Oscar Piastri, a difficult first year in Formula 1 is what he is going through at McLaren. As he navigates the challenges of F1, the Australian driver credits his F1 veteran manager, for keeping him grounded and prepared. Piastri recently opened up about the impact this has had on his transition to F1.
Oscar has encountered a series of unpredictable races, with several impediments. Be it DNFs, damage to his car, or external factors such as food poisoning. Despite these setbacks, Piastri maintains a positive outlook. The Aussie acknowledges his manager Mark Webber’s role in his career. He is grateful for the value the F1 veteran has added ever since their time together in Formula 3 and Formula 2. Piastri admires Webber’s ability to think like a racer and always push him to perform at his best.
When asked about the reassuring presence of Mark Webber, Piastri speaks highly of the former F1 driver’s role as his manager. In an interview with Motorsport-Total.com, he said, “I think it was good that he [Mark Webber] reminded me before the season so I wasn’t shocked when I got here.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“That was probably the most important thing, but he’s also very helpful with little driver tips here and there and thinks to himself sometimes asks questions for the engineers that I can’t even think of right now, so he’s still very perceptive, thinks like a racer and always tries to get the best out of me.”
Oscar Piastri has embarked on a remarkable journey with McLaren this season. While his debut has been eventful with unforeseen challenges, the Aussie had thrived well. Even with issues like food poisoning, the McLaren rookie has not complained & kept his game up.
Oscar Piastri Awakening to the Realities of F1
Oscar Piastri’s laid-back personality initially posed a challenge when it came to adapting to the intensity of Formula 1. However, under Mark Webber’s mentorship, Piastri soon grasped the gravity of the situation. The Aussie prodigy understands the immense step up in every aspect of the sport. He has been sincere not just in terms of the racing but also in terms of the multitude of responsibilities and interactions that come with being an F1 driver.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
He stated, “Going into the season my personality was quite laid back, maybe a little too laid back for Mark’s liking at times. But his advice was not to underestimate the challenge of Formula 1 and how big the step up is.”
Piastri’s honest reflection highlights the comprehensive transformation he underwent, realizing that F1 demands a level of dedication and involvement that surpasses anything he had experienced before.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY | Is Oscar Piastri Already Justifying His Talent By Performing Better Than Daniel Ricciardo at McLaren?
But how does a laid-back personality develop into a resilient and adaptable force in this unforgiving sport? Oscar Piastri’s awakening serves as a reminder that success in Formula 1 demands more than just skill behind the wheel.