Piastri's Rise: Is It Just the McLaren Car?

Oscar Piastri's 2025 Surge: More Than Just the Car?

Mclaren team principal Andrea Stella insists that Oscar Piastri's impressive performance in the 2025 Formula 1 season is not solely due to the team's improved car, the MCL39.

Why it matters: Piastri's rapid progress from rookie to championship contender has raised questions about the factors behind his success.

The big picture: While McLaren's MCL39 has undoubtedly contributed to the team's improved competitiveness, Stella argues that Piastri's own development, particularly in tire management, has been crucial.

Key Points:

• Piastri's mastery of tire degradation is a major factor in his recent success.
• Stella credits the collaboration between engineers and Piastri in understanding and preventing tire damage.
• McLaren's tire-friendly car has allowed both Piastri and Norris to extend their tire life compared to rivals.
• Piastri's ability to manage his hard tires in the Miami Grand Prix was instrumental in his victory.

What's next: Stella expects continued strong performances from both Piastri and Norris as the season progresses, emphasizing that any perceived differences in overtaking ability are minimal.