Oscar Piastri projects a public image in F1 of calm and composure based on a measured approach to life in the fast lane, but beneath the Aussie’s cool exterior lies a fierce competitive spirit.
The McLaren driver’s rise to prominence in the sport has been swift and impressive, with the highly-rated 23-year-old winning his first F1 race – a sprint event – last season in Qatar.
He then claimed his first Grand Prix triumph last month in Hungary, after just 35 starts, an achievement that cemented his status as one of F1’s brightest talents.
Piastri has developed a distinct approach to race weekends, characterized by a conservative and methodical build-up through practice sessions.
His demeanor, both on and off the track, is similarly controlled, exuding a calmness that has earned him admiration but also raised questions about his ability to match the aggression of the sport's top drivers.
However, the McLaren ace insists that his serene public image belies a ruthless competitor.
“Just because I'm calm doesn't mean I'm not ruthless,” Piastri told Sky Sports.
“There's been a lot of tough situations through my career where you need to get your elbows out.”
The young driver acknowledges the importance of earning respect on track, but he's adamant that it can be achieved without compromising his calm exterior.
“I think I said last year, I don't want to be seen as a pest on track, but you have to earn your respect,” he explained.
“I feel like that's something that I've done and tried to race people hard but fair.
“I definitely think I'm ruthless enough, but it doesn't have to come at the expense of being calm and a nice person as well.”
Behind the scenes, Piastri's personality is more vibrant and engaging. His quick wit and dry humor are evident on social media, a stark contrast to his often-reserved public persona.
This contrast is a deliberate choice, according to the Australian.
“My personality is pretty relaxed and calm as it is,” Piastri told the Going Purple podcast.
“There's been conscious effort on that as well. I mean, not in terms of [creating] a personality, but in terms of making sure that I'm in the right headspace when I'm in the car.
“Maybe it came a bit more naturally than it does for some others, but it was still a conscious effort to try and make sure I'm always in that headspace.”
The pressure of the sport can be immense, but Piastri has cultivated a mental fortitude that allows him to remain composed under pressure.
“Because there are still moments, motorsport can be pretty frustrating at the best of times, so I would say, a combination of just how I kind of am naturally, and then also having a conscious effort to keep it that way and just be a professional.”
However, the young driver is quick to dispel any notion of being emotionless.
“I think a lot of people think I'm very calm, which I think I am, but I still have my moments,” he added.
“You need the odd moment of rage here and there.
“Some people think I'm like, complete flat line, but I do have my moments.”
As Piastri continues to climb the ranks of Formula 1, his ability to balance his calm demeanor with a ruthless competitive spirit will be crucial.
While the world may see a composed and collected driver, the young Australian is quietly building a reputation as a very big force to be reckoned with.
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