Piastri Hints at Key Factor to 'Unlock Pace' Ahead of Mexican GP

Oscar Piastri faced similar challenges in Mexico City to those he encountered in Austin, expressing frustration over a consistent four to five-tenths gap to the front. Despite the team confirming no underlying car issues, Piastri believes finding the car's full pace is crucial for a strong race.

Why it matters:

McLaren's recent resurgence has seen them become a consistent threat at the front, but Piastri's struggles in Mexico highlight the fine margins in F1. Unlocking his full potential, especially after a challenging Austin weekend, is crucial for McLaren to maximize points and maintain their Constructors' Championship momentum against fierce rivals like Ferrari and Mercedes.

The details:

• Consistent Gap: Piastri noted that he has consistently been four to five tenths off the pace in every session during the Mexican Grand Prix weekend, which he described as "not a great sign."
• Similar Austin Issues: He identified that some difficulties experienced in Austin a week prior were resurfacing in Mexico, suggesting a recurring challenge that needs to be addressed.
• Car Feel: Despite the time deficit, Piastri stated that he didn't encounter any major issues and that the car "felt normal," making the gap to his teammate, Lando Norris, particularly perplexing.
• McLaren's Stance: McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella confirmed that all data and indirect measurements indicate "no problem with the car," dismissing suspicions of an underlying mechanical issue with Piastri's MCL39.

What's next:

Piastri's focus remains on finding the "key factor" to unlock the car's pace. With the Mexican Grand Prix featuring the longest run to Turn 1 of the season, gaining positions at the start will be vital. If he can overcome these challenges and find his rhythm, McLaren could see both drivers fighting at the sharp end of the grid, crucial for their championship ambitions.