Piastri: McLaren's Starts Have Been Better Than Ferrari's All Year

Oscar Piastri has directly countered the widespread notion that Ferrari possesses the best race starts on the current F1 grid, insisting that McLaren's launches have "been better" all season. Speaking after Sprint qualifying at the Canadian Grand Prix, the Australian driver emphasized his confidence in his team's procedures.

Why it matters:

Race starts have become a critical differentiator in 2025 due to severe turbo lag from the removal of the MGU-H. Ferrari has been consistently strong off the line, but Piastri's claim challenges that reputation. If McLaren indeed holds an advantage, it could be pivotal in tight battles at the front, especially with both teams closely matched in Montreal.

The Details:

• Piastri qualified fourth for the Sprint in Canada, with teammate Lando Norris third. The Ferraris qualified fifth and sixth.
• Asked whether he needs to watch for fast-starting Ferrari drivers, Piastri replied: "Our starts have been better than Ferrari's all year, so we're confident in ours."
• McLaren has introduced the second phase of its major upgrade package in Canada, while Mercedes—still struggling with starts—has also taken a step forward.
• Revised start procedures were introduced from China onward to address slow launches caused by turbo lag, but Ferrari adapted quickly. Mercedes drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell have often lost positions at the first corner.

What's next:

The Sprint race will provide an immediate test of these claims. If Piastri can hold position or gain against the Ferraris, it will support his confidence. With the field so tight, any advantage off the line could decide the race outcome.