(Motorsport-Total.com) – After the Chinese Grand Prix, Oscar Piastri finds himself in an unusual situation: The McLaren driver has not yet completed a full Grand Prix distance in the current season. But how serious is this deficit really?
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Team principal Andrea Stella acknowledges that this is indeed a disadvantage under the new technical framework. Especially in 2026 with the changed regulations and more complex energy management, every single lap is crucial.
“With the new rules and the way of driving where you have to manage electrical energy, you learn in every lap,” Stella explains. “And the race itself is the most important situation for learning.”
Piastri “a bit behind”
For this reason, Stella sees his driver currently “a bit behind”. Without actual race distance, Piastri is missing important experience in direct competition on track. Nevertheless, the Italian emphasizes that this deficit should not be viewed in isolation. Data analysis and teamwork could compensate for part of it.
“You can also learn a lot by looking at your teammate’s data,” says Stella. “Even in China we analyzed together and learned in the process.”
Close cooperation with Lando Norris plays a crucial role. According to Stella, the cooperation between the two McLaren drivers is currently better than ever. “They share information, they search for insights together. That certainly helps Oscar.”
Mentally strong despite setbacks
Stella is particularly impressed by his driver’s mental development. The difficult start to the season was a real test of character. “These first races were an opportunity for Oscar to show how mentally strong he is,” explains the team principal. “The team is very impressed.”
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Piastri has not only made progress as a driver, but also as a person. His reaction to the setbacks even has a motivating effect on the entire team. “When a driver handles difficulties like that, it’s extremely inspiring,” says Stella.
The team principal also highlights the relationship between Norris and Piastri. Despite internal competition – both have already fought for the championship – mutual respect remains high. “That shows who they are,” says Stella. “And also why they drive for McLaren.”
Piastri: “No magic advantage at Mercedes”
Sportingly, McLaren is currently under pressure nonetheless. Mercedes has won both races and sprints so far and is considered the benchmark. However, Piastri disputes the theory that there is a “trick” behind the superiority. “There’s nothing magical about it,” he makes clear.
In his assessment, it is rather classic factors: “They probably just have more downforce and are currently using the power unit better.” Especially small differences add up quickly to a significant advantage in the current regulations.
“We’re losing a bit everywhere,” analyzes the Australian. “There’s no one area where we’re particularly weak or strong.” Piastri also watches Ferrari closely. “They might even be stronger in the corners, but a bit weaker on the straights,” he thinks.
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