McLaren charger Oscar Piastri says aspiring young drivers aiming to break into Formula 1 should stick with their “inner belief” and “never give up” despite the inevitable hurdle that appear along the way.
Piastri made his F1 debut in 2023 with McLaren and by the end of his rookie season, the 22-year-old had established himself as a force to be reckoned with, having secured a pair of podiums during his maiden campaign and a sensational Sprint race win in Qatar.
The Aussie’s path to F1 was paved with victories, including three consecutive championships at the Formula Renault Eurocup, Formula 3, and Formula 2 levels.
Yet, despite his meteoric rise to the pinnacle of motorsport, Piastri's journey was not without its challenges and dealing with the latter required outstanding dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to his dream.
“Never give up,” he told Speedcafe when asked what advice he would give to the next generation of young drivers.
“There are always hurdles and challenges along the way, but they can shape you and make you better.
“You must always maintain that inner belief in yourself that has got you to where you are.
“Another thing is to enjoy it. Motorsport is obviously a tough business at times, but never lose that passion that made you pursue it.”
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A native of Australia, Piastri faced the demanding task of leaving home at a young age to pursue his racing aspirations in Europe.
This decision meant being separated from his family and support network, while also grappling with the financial constraints often associated with motorsport.
Formula 4, recognized globally as an equitable entry-level competition, emerged as Piastri’s first port of call in 2017.
However, he opted to compete in British Formula 4, rather than participate in the local Australian series, which demonstrated his commitment to seeking the most competitive environment possible.
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“Globally, not just in Australia, I think the important things are increasing the competition, encouraging more people to get into motorsport and continually improving the standards so that potential is being tested and honed at a young age,” he reasoned.
“Unfortunately, it's not an easy process and there is no tried and tested path, but I think those are good building blocks.”
Australia has a long and proud history of producing world-class athletes, particularly in motorsports, where the country has produced a remarkable fifteen drivers who have started a world championship grand prix.
Among the latter are Sir Jack Brabham and Alan Jones, who both ascended to the pinnacle of the sport by becoming Formula 1 world champions, as well as Grand Prix winners Mark Webber – Piastri’s manager – and Daniel Ricciardo.
Oscar Piastri and manager Mark Webber
But Australia's success in motorsport also extends to two-wheel racing, where riders like Casey Stoner and Mick Doohan have captivated audiences with their exceptional skills.
Australia's sporting prowess extends beyond motorsport. The country's cricket team has etched its name in history by winning the Cricket World Cup on six occasions.
In the realm of tennis, Australia has a rich tradition of producing champions, with many legendary players gracing the courts over the years.
Piastri admitted that he couldn’t put his finger on the reasons behind his country’s remarkable array of sporting achievements.
“I think having athletes go before you and prove that it's possible is a big thing,” he said.
“When I was growing up, Mark [Webber], for example, showed that making it in Europe and F1 is possible.
“The Australian cricket teams have obviously had phenomenal success, and in sports like tennis, we've had Grand Slam champions that have inspired others.“Those successes give people that are watching the belief that they can do it and I think that's a huge thing.”
Indeed, Australia’s passion for sports, coupled with its dedication to providing opportunities for athletes to reach their full potential, has undoubtedly contributed to its global reputation as a sporting powerhouse.
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