Oscar Piastri
Oscar Piastri praised for smart drive to second at Japanese GP
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Oscar Piastri delivered a composed drive from third on the grid to second place at the Japanese Grand Prix, earning praise from F1 TV analyst Alex Brundle. A safety car triggered by Oliver Bearman's crash altered the race, allowing Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli to pit cheaply and secure victory. McLaren showed improved form at Suzuka after a troubled start to the 2026 season.
McLaren's Oscar Piastri finished second at the Japanese Grand Prix, his first race start of the 2026 Formula 1 season following crashes and mechanical issues in the opening rounds. Team principal Andrea Stella called it the 'best version' of the Australian driver seen in F1, while Piastri hailed one of his strongest weekends despite finishing behind Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli.
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Oscar Piastri set the fastest time of 1:30.133 in second practice for the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, beating Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli by 0.092 seconds on soft tires. George Russell was third for the constructors' leaders, with McLaren teammate Lando Norris fourth.
Oscar Piastri has dismissed much of the external debate surrounding McLaren's papaya rules, emphasizing that internal discussions are minimal and the team's approach remains effective. The Australian driver reflected on a strong 2025 Formula 1 season where he secured seven grand prix victories and grew as a racer. Looking ahead, McLaren plans to review and tweak its strategies before the 2026 campaign begins.