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via f1oversteer.comMartin Brundle and Nico Rosberg won’t accept McLaren explanation for Oscar Piastri’s drop-offMcLaren has cited Oscar Piastri's driving style as a key factor in his disappointing performance during the 2026 season, where he has only managed two podium finishes in the first 14 races. Team principal Andrea Stella mentioned that Piastri struggles with the MCL40 due to reduced downforce, which has made the car more challenging to handle. This situation contrasts sharply with his successful 2025 season, where he won seven races and was a strong contender for the championship.
Former drivers Martin Brundle and Nico Rosberg have expressed skepticism regarding McLaren's explanation. Brundle emphasized the importance of adaptability in F1, while Rosberg argued that top drivers must be versatile to succeed. Both commentators noted that Piastri's smooth driving style may not be suited to the current car dynamics, which require a more aggressive approach. Meanwhile, Lando Norris's improved performance has shifted the team dynamics, further highlighting Piastri's struggles.
Mon 14 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comNico Rosberg says one Oscar Piastri issue exposed ‘pretty shocking’ reality of the MadringThe Madring made its debut as the host of the Spanish Grand Prix, facing significant criticism for its design and lack of overtaking opportunities. Nico Rosberg highlighted the challenges drivers faced, particularly Oscar Piastri, who was unable to overtake Franco Colapinto despite being on fresher tires, illustrating the track's limitations.
During the race, Fernando Alonso narrowly avoided a collision with Carlos Sainz, emphasizing the circuit's dangers. Piastri's race was compromised early on due to front wing damage, and he expressed frustration over the lack of overtaking options and the timing of the Virtual Safety Car, which hindered his strategy.Mon 14 Sep · 06:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri admits to exceeding track limitsDuring the Spanish Grand Prix, Oscar Piastri received a black-and-white flag from the FIA for exceeding track limits. The McLaren driver admitted he had gone too far with his maneuver, finishing the race in eighth place.
Sun 13 Sep · 21:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLando Norris Outperforming Oscar Piastri in 2026 SeasonRalf Schumacher and Juan Pablo Montoya have commented on Lando Norris's performance relative to teammate Oscar Piastri at McLaren in 2026. Both analysts suggest that Norris's skills are highlighting Piastri's struggles in comparison.Sun 13 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekPierre Gasly stumped by sudden pace loss after Q2 exit in MadridPierre Gasly experienced a surprising decline in performance during the qualifying session for the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, resulting in his elimination in Q2 and a 14th place starting position. He was perplexed by the drastic change in the car's behavior compared to earlier in the weekend, indicating that he felt comfortable with the car's balance prior to qualifying.
Gasly plans to work with his team to investigate the issues that led to the loss of grip and performance. He expressed skepticism about his chances in the upcoming race, suggesting that he might need to take risks to improve his situation. Despite the overall improvement in track conditions, he remains uncertain about the car's competitiveness in the high-speed sections of the circuit.
Sun 13 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via f1technical.netPiastri reveals why he "didn’t have that last bit we needed in the last run"Oscar Piastri expressed disappointment after qualifying seventh for the Spanish Grand Prix, despite McLaren showing competitive pace with Lando Norris achieving pole position. Piastri's performance was hindered by a cautious qualifying strategy that required him to use two sets of soft tyres in Q2, leaving him with only one fresh set for Q3, which affected his final lap performance.
Piastri acknowledged that while the team made improvements throughout the qualifying sessions, he lacked the final pace needed to challenge for a higher position. He emphasized the importance of strategy for the race, given the expected difficulty in overtaking and uncertainties regarding tyre degradation after practice sessions.
Sat 12 Sep · 23:00 UTC
via f1technical.netAlpine reflect on their contrasting fortunes in Madrid after Monza pole shockAlpine faced contrasting results in the qualifying session for the Spanish Grand Prix, with Franco Colapinto achieving a commendable ninth place while Pierre Gasly struggled to secure fourteenth. Colapinto's performance was a notable turnaround from his teammate's recent pole position at Monza, showcasing his ability to handle pressure and adapt to the new Madring circuit. Gasly, on the other hand, encountered grip issues and crashed during Q2, which hindered his chances of a top-ten start.
Despite the mixed outcomes, both drivers and Alpine's management expressed optimism for the race. Colapinto acknowledged the challenges of overtaking at the new track and emphasized the importance of executing their strategy effectively. Gasly, while disappointed with his qualifying result, pointed to promising long-run performance in practice as a reason for hope. The team is focused on understanding the discrepancies in performance and aims to maximize their chances for points in the upcoming race.Sat 12 Sep · 22:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris to rely on Oscar Piastri information in Madrid 'backfoot' recoveryLando Norris faced a setback at the Spanish Grand Prix when he was unable to participate in the second practice session due to a gearbox failure on his McLaren. This issue forced him to miss a significant portion of practice time, which he acknowledged would put him on the back foot as he prepares for the race weekend.
To compensate for the lost time, Norris intends to analyze data from his teammate Oscar Piastri, who successfully completed the session and finished seventh. Piastri noted the challenges of mastering the new circuit and highlighted the importance of tire management, indicating that both drivers will need to work hard to improve their performance ahead of qualifying.Sat 12 Sep · 05:20 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJuan Pablo Montoya sees the one area Lando Norris ‘always’ outclasses Oscar PiastriJuan Pablo Montoya feels Mercedes’ George Russell and McLaren’s Oscar Piastri face the same issue because of their teammates, Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Lando Norris. ...Fri 11 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via F1iPiastri insists ‘we’re all good’ after heated Monza battle with NorrisOscar Piastri has downplayed any concerns regarding team dynamics at McLaren following a tense race with teammate Lando Norris at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. Despite a heated battle for fourth place, which included some close moments and Norris expressing frustration over team radio, both drivers have moved past the incident and maintain a positive relationship, even spending time together off the track.
Piastri also reflected on his performance and adaptation to the 2026 McLaren car, noting that he has faced challenges but found some improvements during the Monza race. As they head to the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit, Piastri is eager to see how his recent progress translates into results on a new track.
Fri 11 Sep · 09:48 UTC
via f1chronicle.comPierre Gasly Says Monza Pole Brings New Belief and Motivation to Alpine Ahead of MadridPierre Gasly says his maiden pole position at Monza has given Alpine new belief and motivation heading into Madrid The Frenchman says the result ended…
via RacingNews365Piastri and Lawson caution on Madring circuit risksThe Madring will host its inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix this weekend, presenting unique challenges for the drivers. Feedback from the grid highlights the circuit's complexity and the potential for mistakes as they navigate the new layout.Thu 10 Sep · 18:15 UTC
via Motorsport WeekPierre Gasly jokes wager on red flag chaos in Madring F1 debutPierre Gasly humorously suggested that the upcoming Formula 1 race in Madrid will likely see a Red Flag due to the challenging nature of the new Madring circuit. He highlighted the circuit's 20-plus corners and the steep banking of La Monumental, which could lead to a chaotic race, especially given the issues faced during the recent Formula 3 test.
Gasly emphasized the importance of understanding the track's unique characteristics, including its tricky braking zones and undulating layout. He believes that the weekend will be unpredictable, with drivers needing to be cautious to avoid mistakes that could have significant repercussions, similar to the challenges faced at Monaco.Thu 10 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Oscar Piastri McLaren contract: Rosberg makes McLaren team orders claimNico Rosberg has expressed that Lando Norris is the standout driver at McLaren, suggesting that Oscar Piastri may need to adopt a supporting role in the 2026 season. Following the recent Monza race, where Norris finished fourth, Rosberg noted that while Norris is the primary title contender for McLaren, Piastri's strong performance, finishing just two-tenths behind Norris, indicates his growing competitiveness within the team.
Rosberg raised the possibility of McLaren implementing team orders to support Norris's championship bid, but he also pointed out that Piastri's contract may prevent him from being relegated to a number two position. He compared this situation to his own experience at Mercedes, where contractual obligations influenced team dynamics. Despite the challenges, Piastri has received praise from McLaren's team principal for his progress in adapting to the demands of the current season.
Wed 9 Sep · 18:01 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri explains 'quite bizarre' Italian GP battle with Lewis HamiltonOscar Piastri had a strong performance at the Italian Grand Prix, finishing in fifth place after a competitive battle with Lewis Hamilton. The race featured significant energy management challenges, which Piastri found unusual and difficult to navigate, especially during his exchanges with Hamilton.
Despite the challenges, Piastri noted that the experience was better than a race with no action. He reflected on the strategic aspects of energy usage, highlighting how Hamilton's aggressive battery use initially gave him an advantage before Piastri managed to reclaim his position.Wed 9 Sep · 17:10 UTC
via PlanetF1McLaren boss calls for FIA changes after Pierre Gasly podium sagaAndrea Stella, the McLaren team principal, has called for changes to the FIA's Right of Review system following the reinstatement of penalties that cost Pierre Gasly his podium finish at the Monaco Grand Prix. This decision came after a lengthy appeal process involving both McLaren and Red Bull, which concluded three months after the race. During a press conference, Stella defended his team against accusations of bias and emphasized the need for improvements in how regulations are enforced.
Stella outlined three key areas for review: the conditions under which a Right of Review should be initiated, the consistency of measurement methodologies used by stewards, and the support provided to stewards in making timely decisions. Ferrari's Fred Vasseur also weighed in, suggesting that the process is generally robust but could benefit from further examination. The discussions highlight ongoing concerns about fairness and consistency in Formula 1's regulatory framework.Wed 9 Sep · 11:40 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAndrea Stella confirms McLaren ‘investigation’ after Oscar Piastri proved MCL40 issue at MonzaAndrea Stella, the team principal of McLaren, announced that the team will investigate issues with their MCL40 car, particularly highlighted by Oscar Piastri's performance at the Italian Grand Prix. Piastri's braking difficulties during qualifying exposed flaws that McLaren had previously identified and planned to address with new brakes at the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
McLaren is focusing on improving the car's performance, especially in slow corners, as they prepare for the Azerbaijan race. The team aims to resolve the braking issues and enhance the car's overall efficiency before the final races of the 2026 F1 season.Wed 9 Sep · 07:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comF1TV interviewer noticed one significant change in Oscar Piastri at the Italian Grand PrixOscar Piastri experienced a notable shift in performance during the Italian Grand Prix, finishing fifth despite a three-place grid penalty for impeding another driver. He engaged in a competitive battle with his teammate Lando Norris, ultimately expressing satisfaction with his race, which marked a potential turning point in his season after struggling with the new regulations in 2026.
Throughout the season, Piastri has faced challenges with race pace and battery management, contrasting with Norris's success. However, following the Italian Grand Prix, he felt he was finally able to drive the McLaren MCL40 as he intended, suggesting a positive development in his confidence and performance on track.Tue 8 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMartin Brundle saw Lando Norris get an underhand advantage to beat Oscar Piastri at MonzaMartin Brundle feels Lando Norris gained a sly advantage as his battle versus McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri got “personal” during the 2026 F1 Italian Grand ...Tue 8 Sep · 18:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Oscar Piastri on new ‘trajectory’ after driving style ‘adaptations’Oscar Piastri had been in podium contention at Monza, but slipped behind Lando Norris before the flag.Tue 8 Sep · 18:02 UTCPage 4 of 13
