For much of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Oscar Piastri looked like the driver to beat, especially when his team-mate struggled and other top teams had issues, showing he could challenge at the front.
However, a few tough weekends later — notably in Azerbaijan, Austin and Mexico — he slipped back and rivals gained an advantage, meaning he now heads into 2026 determined to deliver consistently at his best throughout the entire season.
Piastri’s strong performances over the last two years, including multiple wins and leading the championship early in 2025, mean he’s regarded as a serious title contender again as the sport enters a new regulation era.
His focus for 2026 will be maintaining high pace, avoiding late-season setbacks, and fighting not only his McLaren team-mate but also drivers from rival teams as competition tightens under the updated rules.