ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
Oscar Piastri has credited his consistent podium finishes this season to one simple strategy. He drives faster than everyone else and avoids crashing into things if he can.
The 23-year-old from Melbourne claimed another impressive victory in Miami last weekend, adding to a dominant run that now includes wins in Bahrain, Japan and China. His latest triumph has seen him surge to the top of the driver standings, overtaking both Red Bull drivers and his own McLaren teammate Lando Norris.
Speaking to media following the Miami Grand Prix, Piastri offered a blunt assessment of his recent form.
“I just try to go quicker than the other drivers and not hit the wall,” said Piastri.
“So that’s my plan. If I keep being the fastest and not crash, I think that will work for me and the team.”
Piastri’s calm approach and refusal to engage in post-race theatrics has set him apart from his rivals. His smooth driving and precise overtaking have made him a serious contender for Australia’s first world title since the nice Alan Jones in 1980.
Local motorsport fans are quietly celebrating the first Australian to lead the Formula 1 season since Mark Webber in 2010.
“He doesn’t even yell on the radio,” said one commentator.
“It’s unsettling.”
With his fourth win in six races, Piastri is now firming as the favourite to win the championship. His team has praised his focus, discipline and ability to return his car to the crew at the end of the race without wrecking it.
Piastri will return to Europe next week ahead of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, where bookmakers have already shortened his odds for another win.
More to come.
