Piastri Storms to Victory
Oscar Piastri Clinches Spa Victory and Extends Championship Lead
Q: Oscar, congratulations on a commanding win. How challenging was the race, particularly given the extended stint on Medium tyres?
Oscar Piastri: Thank you. The event was far from straightforward. Post-start, we needed to manage the intermediate tyres carefully—the circuit dried rapidly, and at Spa, aggressive driving can degrade those tyres within just a couple of laps. Once I switched to Mediums, the initial laps felt strong and consistent. However, when I observed Lando running competitively on Hards, I grew slightly anxious—nearly 25 laps remained, and I was unsure how my compound would hold up. Fortunately, the Mediums performed better than anticipated.
Q: Did you consider switching to the Hard compound at the pit stop?
Oscar Piastri: Yes, that option was discussed prior to the race. Ultimately, the pit decision was somewhat spontaneous—there is always inherent risk. In Lando’s position, I might well have made the same choice. Medium tyres seemed the most reliable at that stage. The Hard compound felt overly rigid for the conditions, and its behavior on the drying track remained uncertain. Additionally, with the likelihood of a safety car on a damp surface, Mediums offered more assurance. In hindsight, I believe we made the correct call.
Q: Your overtake of your teammate at the start proved pivotal. Was that always your plan?
Oscar Piastri: Absolutely—I knew securing the lead early on would significantly benefit my race. I executed a clean exit from Turn 1, went hard through Eau Rouge, and managed to remain in the slipstream. That move was critical—if I could lead into the first corners, I could dictate the remainder of the race.
Q: With Hungary on the horizon—where you claimed your first-ever win last year—what are your expectations?
Oscar Piastri: I’m genuinely excited about returning to Hungary. It is always a vibrant weekend, with great atmosphere and a fantastic circuit. Naturally, it holds special meaning as the venue of my maiden victory. Though once you're in the car, that connection fades—your focus shifts entirely to performance.
Q: You dedicated today’s victory to your grandfather. Why did you choose to honour him specifically?
Oscar Piastri: This was the first overseas Grand Prix he attended in person. Perhaps I should invite more family members to upcoming races—it might be a lucky charm! In any case, I felt he was the most deserving person to dedicate this win to.
