Oscar Piastri has yet to complete a Grand Prix distance in 2026, but McLaren still sees progress – and no “magical” advantage with Mercedes
After the Chinese Grand Prix, Oscar Piastri faces an unusual situation: the McLaren driver has not yet completed a full Grand Prix distance this season. But how serious is this deficit really?
Team Principal Andrea Stella admits that this is definitely a disadvantage under the new technical framework conditions. Especially in 2026, with the changed regulations and more complex energy management, every single lap is crucial.
“With the new rules and the way you have to manage the electrical energy, you learn on every lap,” explains Stella. “And the race itself is the most important situation for learning.”
Piastri “a bit behind”
For this reason, Stella believes his driver is currently “a bit behind”. Without a real race distance, Piastri lacks important experience in direct duels on the track. Nevertheless, the Italian emphasizes that this deficit should not be viewed in isolation. Data analysis and teamwork could compensate for some of it.
“You can also learn a lot by looking at your team-mate’s data,” says Stella. “Even in China, we analyzed and learned together.”
The close collaboration with Lando Norris plays a crucial role in this. According to Stella, the cooperation between the two McLaren drivers is currently working better than ever. “They share information, they look for insights together. That helps Oscar, of course.”
Mentally strong despite setbacks
Stella is particularly impressed by the mental development of his driver. The difficult start to the season was a real test of endurance. “These first races were an opportunity for Oscar to show how mentally strong he is,” explains the team boss. “The team is very impressed.”
Piastri has not only made progress as a driver, but also as a personality. His reaction to the setbacks even had a motivating effect on the entire team. “When a driver deals with difficulties in this way, it is extremely inspiring,” says Stella.
The team boss also emphasizes the relationship between Norris and Piastri. Despite internal competition – both have already fought for the world championship title – mutual respect remains high. “That shows who they are,” says Stella. “And also why they drive for McLaren.”
Piastri: “No magical advantage with Mercedes”
In sporting terms, however, McLaren is currently under pressure. Mercedes has won both the races and sprints so far and is regarded as the benchmark. However, Piastri disagrees with the theory that there is a “trick” behind the superiority. “There’s nothing magical about it,” he clarifies.
In his opinion, it’s more down to classic factors: “They probably just have more downforce and are currently making better use of the power unit.” Small differences in particular quickly add up to a significant advantage under the current regulations.
“We lose a bit everywhere,” analyzes the Australian. “There is no one area where we are particularly weak or strong.” Piastri is also keeping a close eye on Ferrari. “They are perhaps even stronger in the corners, but slightly weaker on the straights,” he says.
