With his 2025 drivers championship lead continuing to dwindle, Oscar Piastri knows the pressure is on heading into this weekend’s Mexico City F1 Grand Prix.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s first practice session at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, the 24-year-old Aussie explained both he and McLaren teammate Lando Norris will begin the weekend on equal terms as the pair seek not just to out-do each other, but also hold off the challenge of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen who now sits just 40 adrift of the championship lead with five races remaining.
Following contact incidents in the past two grand prix weekends between Piastri and Norris, the 24-year-old indicated both McLaren drivers had taken a level responsibility.
“I think there is a degree of responsibility from my side in the Sprint (in Austin), and we’re starting this weekend with a clean slate for both of us, so just going out and racing and see who can come out on top,” Piastri said.
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Asked if his ‘clean slate’ comment meant the repercussions given to Norris after their lap one incident in Singapore had been lifted, the Australian nodded.
“Yes, the consequences on Lando’s side have been removed, there were a lot of factors involved, but ultimately that’s what’s been decided,” Piastri said, explaining McLaren’s much talked about ‘papaya rules’ are still in play.
“For us it’s pretty clear what those rules are—don’t crash into each other,” he added.
“Regardless of what scenario you’re in, that’s how you’re expected to race as teammates.”
As for the increasing title challenge of four-time reigning world champion Verstappen, Piastri acknowledged the Dutchman’s improved consistency was driving his rapid climb up the rankings.
“Clearly over the last few race weekends, Red Bull and Max have certainly found consistency more than anything,” he said.
“There were flashes of that kind of performance earlier in the season, but I think the last few weekends it’s been very consistent.
“I’m sure that they’re going to be a threat again this weekend and we’ll try our best to get the most out of our car and see where we end up.”