Oscar Piastri seeks performance gains ahead of the Italian Grand Prix

Formula1.com1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 5:58 PM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Oscar Piastri seeks performance gains ahead of the Italian Grand Prix
Summary

McLaren driver Oscar Piastri enters the Italian Grand Prix weekend aiming to address ongoing performance inconsistencies. The Australian pilot stated that his recent struggles are not tied to a single recurring technical issue, which complicates the team's diagnostic process. Piastri finished 32 seconds behind teammate Lando Norris at the Dutch Grand Prix, highlighting a notable race-pace deficit. While the team identified potential improvements for car setup and driving approach, these adjustments remain subject to on-track testing in Monza. Piastri cited challenges in adapting to the 2026 technical regulations, including distinct car concepts and tire characteristics, alongside occasional reliability concerns and bad luck. He maintains that while qualifying parity has improved, closing the performance gap during race conditions remains the primary objective for the team.

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Key Details
  • Oscar Piastri cited recurring, varied performance issues instead of one specific technical problem.
  • The Dutch Grand Prix result saw Piastri finish 32 seconds behind race winner Lando Norris.
  • Piastri identified adapting to 2026 regulations and tire characteristics as ongoing challenges.
  • McLaren is testing new car setups during the Italian Grand Prix to bridge the race-pace gap.
What they're saying
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Oscar Piastri believes he and McLaren have "got ideas on how we can make things better" ahead of this weekend's Italian Grand Prix, after the Australian has struggled for performance in recent races.

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