Piastri’s third-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix marked his first podium in Formula 1. However, the Australian rookie expressed his dissatisfaction with his own performance, particularly in managing tyre degradation. He admitted that he was not quick enough at certain points during the race and acknowledged that high-degradation races pose a significant challenge for him. Piastri recognized that his lack of experience in this type of race format affected his ability to perform at his best.
McLaren team boss Andrea Stella echoed Piastri’s sentiments and highlighted that mastering the art of handling tyre degradation is a continuous learning process. Stella pointed out that race pace is not a single skill that can be applied universally to every race. Each race presents its own unique characteristics and demands specific techniques. Therefore, it takes time for drivers like Piastri to accumulate the necessary experience and knowledge to excel in different race scenarios.
Stella reassured that Piastri’s need for further learning should not be a cause for alarm. As the 2021 Formula 2 champion, Piastri has already demonstrated exceptional outright speed. Stella emphasized the importance of building upon this foundation and utilizing it as a stepping stone to develop race pace and other related skills. He acknowledged Piastri’s progress throughout the Japanese Grand Prix and believed that with systematic learning, the young Australian driver would continue to improve his performance.
Both Piastri and Stella emphasized the significance of experience and actual race practice in honing the skills required for managing tyre degradation. In junior racing series, such as Formula 2, high-degradation races are rare, making it difficult to gain exposure and learn from them. Piastri acknowledged this and emphasized that the only way to improve is through hands-on experience. Stella concurred, stating that the nuances and techniques required for successful tyre management can only be truly understood and applied through actual race situations.
Piastri’s performance in the Japanese Grand Prix serves as a learning opportunity for the Australian rookie. While he achieved his first podium finish, he acknowledged his shortcomings in handling tyre degradation. McLaren team boss Andrea Stella reassured that Piastri’s outright speed provides a strong foundation for improvement in race pace and other related skills. Both Piastri and Stella highlighted the importance of gaining experience through actual races, as the nuances and demands of different race scenarios cannot be fully grasped without hands-on learning. As Piastri continues his journey in Formula 1, his dedication to learning and improving is crucial for his future success.
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