Source: Official Team Post via X
Oscar Piastri Finds McLaren's Mexico Prospects Uncertain After Opening Day
Oscar Piastri expressed uncertainty about McLaren's potential at the Mexico City Grand Prix following the first day on track. Despite a mixed performance in practice sessions, the team remains hopeful for further improvements.
Oscar Piastri offered a cautious assessment of McLaren's prospects after the initial day of the Mexico City Grand Prix. The Australian driver found it challenging to predict the team's potential for the weekend, citing the unpredictable nature of the track conditions.
During the first practice session, Piastri was partnered with McLaren's reserve driver, Leonardo Fornaroli. Piastri managed to secure the eighth spot on the timesheets, while Fornaroli ended up in 17th. Later, Lando Norris rejoined for the second practice, showing strong form by finishing just behind pace-setter Charles Leclerc in second place, whereas Piastri settled for 10th.
Piastri's day was not without its hiccups, as he narrowly avoided the barriers during Free Practice 2. Despite this, he felt the sessions went reasonably well for McLaren. "I think we looked okay," he remarked post-session. "Ferrari have looked very strong, but I think we’re doing all right. My lap on the soft in FP2 was a bit rough at the end, but overall, it’s going reasonably well. Mexico always presents challenges with its conditions, and while the track is improving quickly, it was an okay day."
Looking ahead to Saturday, Piastri was hesitant to make any bold predictions for McLaren, especially considering many teams, including those with rookie drivers, missed the first practice session. "It’s very difficult to know," said the nine-time race winner. "When so many miss FP1, it makes things tricky. But there’s a lot to learn, and we aim to improve for tomorrow."
McLaren’s Senior Racing Director, Randy Singh, was more upbeat about the day, particularly praising Fornaroli’s contributions. Singh noted, "The day was really good. Leo did a great job in FP1, helping us test various setups to adapt to the tricky high-altitude conditions here. In FP2, we focused on refining the car’s performance."
Singh acknowledged the competitiveness at the front, with the top teams closely matched, and highlighted the challenges teams will face in managing temperatures on race day. "The midfield is tighter than it’s been in recent races, making qualifying crucial. Temperature management will be a challenge on Sunday, as demonstrated by numerous lock-ups today," Singh added.
As the weekend progresses, McLaren remains cautiously optimistic, aware that the circuit's unique demands could shake up the field come race day.