Piastri's Statistical Edge: Better Average Finish Than Champion Norris in 2025

Despite Lando Norris clinching the 2025 drivers' title, teammate Oscar Piastri held a statistical advantage in one key metric: average finishing position. Piastri's average finish of 2.7 across classified races bested the champion's 3.6, highlighting a season of remarkable consistency from the Australian, even as the championship slipped from his grasp in the final rounds.

Why it matters:

While championships are won on points, underlying performance metrics like average finish reveal a driver's raw speed and consistency. Piastri's superior average, despite finishing third in the standings, suggests his title challenge was derailed more by specific bad luck and late-season form than an overall performance deficit to his champion teammate. It underscores the fine margins in Formula 1 and sets the stage for an intriguing intra-team dynamic heading into 2026.

The details:

The numbers tell a compelling story of Piastri's season. He led the championship for 15 of the 24 rounds and was classified in 22 races, with an average finish of 2.7. Norris, despite matching Piastri's seven wins and holding an 8-5 advantage in second-place finishes, saw his average dragged down to 3.6 by two classified finishes outside the points. According to F1 regulations, because Norris completed over 90% of the race distance in Canada (crash with Piastri) and the Netherlands (engine failure), he was officially classified 18th in both events. These results were factored into his average. Piastri's only non-classified finish was a first-lap DNF in Azerbaijan, which did not count toward his average. Both drivers' disqualifications in Las Vegas were excluded from this calculation.

The big picture:

This statistical nuance adds depth to the narrative of McLaren's dominant 2025 season. Norris's title was secured through crucial points-scoring in the final rounds, capitalizing on Verstappen's charge and Piastri's stumble. However, Piastri's season-long consistency, as evidenced by his better average finish, proves he was a constant threat. The data reinforces that McLaren possessed the fastest package, with its drivers often finishing 1-2 or on the podium. The head-to-head battle, decided by just 13 points, was one of the closest in recent memory and showcases the elite level of both drivers.

What's next:

For McLaren, managing this fiercely competitive pairing will be paramount as they defend their constructors' title in 2026. Piastri will be motivated to convert his underlying pace into a championship, while Norris will aim to maintain his champion's edge. This internal rivalry, backed by compelling data, promises to be a central storyline, pushing the team and its drivers to new heights. The statistical foundation from 2025 ensures both will enter the new season with legitimate title ambitions.