By choosing McLaren, Oscar Piastri has offered himself a place among the greats of F1, leaving Alpine with a void that will be difficult to fill.
The sudden abandonment of Fernando Alonso in 2022 had pushed Alpine to promote Oscar Piastri, a talent from its Academy. However, the Australian had refused the offer from the French team to join McLaren.
A choice which, today, seems to more than pay off. His manager, former driver Mark Webber, does not hesitate to qualify Piastri as a driver “world class”.
A difficult season for Alpine, brilliant for Piastri
While Alpine struggles with a catastrophic 2024 F1 season, McLaren benefits from the rise of Oscar Piastri. The young Australian driver is in great shape and dominates the rankings for the last seven Grands Prix, scoring more points than big names like Charles Leclerc, Max Verstappen or even his teammate Lando Norris.
Piastri’s journey in 2024 is impressive and shows how wise his choice to leave Alpine for McLaren was. Mark Webber was full of praise for his protégé, describing his performance as consistent and impressive throughout the year.
Mark Webber praises his pilot
In reported statements, Webber highlighted Piastri’s consistency and speed in all race conditions, particularly in Baku, where he delivered an exceptional performance.
“In Baku, he had one of the best races I have ever seen from him. He was able to resist the pressure and make decisive overtakes, notably against Charles Leclerc, a very high level driver. to beat on this circuit, it was an achievement” Webber said.
The former Australian driver also spoke about Piastri’s two crucial victories this season, while highlighting his ability to learn quickly. During an intense race, Piastri followed Leclerc in the first stint before finding himself in a delicate situation at the pit exit: “He had to face Sergio Pérez, but held on and then imposed his pace.”
Impressive mastery in Baku
Mark Webber also praised Piastri’s discipline and control, which allowed him to dominate tough races like Baku.
“To succeed in a Grand Prix on such a demanding circuit, with this mastery and calm, is the sign of true world-class talent” added Webber.
This recognition from an F1 legend is testament to the enormous potential of Piastri, who continues to prove race after race that he deserves his place among the best.
Does Alpine regret its choice?
While Oscar Piastri shines in the colors of McLaren, Alpine is in the middle of a crisis. The Australian’s decision to turn his back on the team that trained him could well be one of the French team’s biggest regrets.
By choosing McLaren, Piastri has offered himself a place among the greats of F1, leaving Alpine with a void that will be difficult to fill.
