Oscar Piastri Heartbroken After Narrowly Missing First F1 Win in Austria
Oscar Piastri was left feeling a little “hurt” at narrowly missing out on what would have been his first F1 Grand Prix victory at the Austrian Grand Prix, having finished just 1.906s away from winner George Russell at the line.
It proved to be a weekend of mixed emotions for Piastri who, after snatching P2 in Saturday’s Sprint from McLaren team mate Lando Norris, had looked on course for a top-three result in qualifying before his lap time was deleted due to track limits.
This dropped him down to a starting position of P7 but, after battling forwards during the race, the Australian then found himself in surprise contention for the win following a dramatic collision between leaders Max Verstappen and Norris which resulted in both sustaining punctures.
With Verstappen slipping backwards to fifth and Norris having to retire owing to the damage sustained to his car, this allowed the previously P3 Russell to take the lead, while Piastri overtook Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz for P2 and tried to chase down the Mercedes.
He ultimately had to settle for second and, while pleased with his podium result, Piastri could not help feeling disappointed at being so close to a win.
“There’s a lot of what ifs and maybes, obviously starting from yesterday [after the deleted lap time in qualifying],” the 23-year-old commented after jumping out of the car. “I know that’s only my fourth podium in F1, but so close to a win, it hurts a little bit.
“But really good points, obviously. I think second half of the race we were coming on pretty strong and I’m happy with another podium – just when it’s that close you can’t help but hurt a little bit.”
The 2024 season continues at pace next weekend at Silverstone, with the British Grand Prix marking the final event in a busy triple-header.
McLaren enjoyed a memorable start to the race in 2023 as Norris and Piastri surged ahead off the line, prompting huge cheers from the crowd.
Reflecting on the team’s prospects for their impending home Grand Prix, Piastri said: “Obviously it was a place of good memories from last year, and hopefully we can be up the front again. Obviously I haven’t seen what happened with Lando and Max, but clearly it was pretty even up at the front.
“I think we’re well and truly in the mix. Silverstone’s a track I always enjoy, it’s the team’s home race, so I’m excited for what’s to come.”
Piastri's Perspective
Despite the evident pain of missing out on a win by just under two seconds, Oscar's ability to see the brighter side sets a remarkable example of sportsmanship and optimism. Piastri’s journey from a P7 starting position to almost tasting victory showcases his tenacity and skill, making him a prominent contender in future races.
His reflections on the Silverstone race hint at a significant boost in his morale and team confidence. With McLaren’s evident pace and newly found vigor, Piastri is not just chasing wins but also aiming to etch his name among F1 legends.
What's Next?
As the 2024 season unfolds, rivalries heat up, and every race becomes a battlefield. McLaren, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris at the helm, is racing not just for victories but to establish a new era of dominance. Mark your calendars, as Silverstone promises to be another electrifying chapter in this year’s Formula 1 saga.
Stay tuned, race enthusiasts, because Oscar Piastri’s journey is one you won't want to miss!