Oscar Piastri made history on Sunday by becoming the first Australian driver to lead the Formula One World Championship since 2010, following his victory at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. However, despite his achievement, the McLaren driver remained focused on the long road ahead, stating that there was much more to be done.
After the celebrations and fireworks in the paddock, Piastri shared his thoughts with reporters, explaining that while he was proud of his team’s hard work, he wasn’t overly concerned with being at the top of the standings so early in the season. “I’m not that bothered by the fact that I’m leading the championship, but I’m proud of the work behind it,” he said. “The work the team has done, the work I’ve done personally—those are the things I’m most proud of.”
Reflecting on the season’s start, Piastri noted that his performance at his home race in Melbourne hadn’t been ideal, but he had felt confident since stepping onto the track this year. “Leading the championship is a result of all the hard work we’ve done in the off-season. I want to be leading after round 24, not round five,” he added.
Piastri, who spun out during the Australian Grand Prix but still managed a ninth-place finish, has now won three of the five races so far this season. His victory in Saudi Arabia was his second consecutive win, making him the first driver this year to achieve back-to-back victories. He now leads his McLaren teammate Lando Norris by 10 points, after starting the evening three points behind.
The last Australian to top the championship standings was Mark Webber in 2010. Now, Piastri’s manager, Webber, continues to play a role in the 24-year-old’s development.
Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, finished second in Saudi Arabia, aware of the growing threat from Piastri. Reflecting on Piastri’s progression, Verstappen said, “People forget that last year was his second year. Now in his third, he’s very solid, calm, and delivers when needed. That’s what you need to fight for a championship.”
Verstappen also praised Webber’s mentorship of Piastri, recognizing the value of learning from an experienced figure. “Oscar is using his talent, and it’s great to see,” he added.
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