Ahead of a Red Bull, McLaren’s Oscar Piastri reigns supreme.
Oscar Piastri says the upgraded McLaren MCL38 has nullified some of their high-speed performance, though he is definitely not complaining.
Piastri received the full package of upgrades for Imola that McLaren team-mate Lando Norris had used to devastating effect in Miami, where he became a Formula 1 race winner for the first time. Imola would see a continuation of that momentum.
Oscar Piastri says McLaren nicer to drive but high-speed has dipped
Additional reporting by Thomas Maher
Although Norris didn’t emerge victorious this time, he applied immense pressure on Max Verstappen from Red Bull during the final stages of the Imola race. He crossed the finish line less than a second behind the current Championship leader. On the other hand, Piastri faced frustration due to the limited DRS zone, which made it difficult for him to overtake Carlos Sainz from Ferrari in his initial stint. Despite this setback, he managed to secure a respectable fourth-place finish.
After the race, Piastri, who spoke to media including Thomas Maher from PlanetF1.com, confirmed that the MCL38 has become more enjoyable to drive with the upgrades. He also mentioned that their performance at low speeds has improved, but at the expense of some of their speed capabilities.
When asked about his opinion on the improved McLaren, Piastri commented that it doesn’t feel significantly different, but rather just faster.
The car’s performance enhancement certainly enhances the driving experience. Whenever the car exhibits greater speed, it invariably becomes more pleasurable to drive.
“However, we are certainly addressing some of the aspects we intended to. Our strengths and weaknesses appear to have shifted slightly. While our high-speed capability has diminished, our low-speed performance has significantly improved compared to the past.”
“Yeah, I believe we have a good grasp on the main reasons behind that. Therefore, I feel quite assured about our future destinations.”
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Encouraged to elaborate further on the improved driving experience, Piastri added, “The car grips better and the overall balance feels more pleasant.”
With the current regulations and the type of tires in use, there is a limit to the level of kindness that can be expected.
In my opinion, if you were to inquire with everyone, it is likely that they all possess a comparable equilibrium, albeit with certain aspects that may be slightly more pronounced than others.
“I believe that we are making progress and, most importantly, the car is becoming faster. Increasing the speed of the car, particularly in race conditions, greatly simplifies things and adds convenience to our lives. This is a positive indication and it gives me great encouragement.”
“We had come close to achieving our goals in a single lap last year, but faced difficulties during the race. However, this year we are equally, if not more, powerful in the race, which is truly motivating.”
Piastri is optimistic for the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix and beyond as McLaren has now challenged Red Bull in consecutive weekends. He believes that the once dominant team is now within their reach.
Piastri expressed his confidence in going to Monaco, stating, “I firmly believe we can be confident in our abilities there.”
“It is evident that Red Bull faced challenges at the beginning of the weekend. However, for the second consecutive weekend, they have appeared slightly weaker than their previous performances, both in Miami and here.”
I believe we are getting closer and closer. Both McLaren and Ferrari are putting pressure on each other. As a team, McLaren, we have every reason to be confident no matter where we compete. Hopefully, Monaco will offer us a great weekend.
With 15 wins, McLaren currently holds the record for the most victories at the Monaco Grand Prix.
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