Oscar Piastri might make a leading F1 team rethink their plans by putting a key driver in a tough spot, causing some to say he could ‘spoil the party.’
The Miami Grand Prix is just around the corner, and all the drivers will be hoping to stand on the top step of the podium Sunday. One driver who could shake things up is Oscar Piastri.
The Australian finished second in Japan behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli, but this season has been tough for him so far. That said, there have only been three races until now. Piastri will be eager to forget his rough start—he crashed before the race even began in Melbourne and didn’t start the Chinese Grand Prix because of electrical problems.
McLaren will want to get their season going again after a short break with no races in April. This Miami race in the US could be their chance to make a statement as the current Constructor Championship winners.
Mercedes have been the team to beat this year, with Ferrari close behind. But former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya thinks Piastri could challenge Antonelli or George Russell for the win on Sunday.
In an interview with AS Colombia, Montoya said Piastri might put Mercedes in a tough spot, making them choose between Russell or Antonelli to secure the victory.
He said, “I think Mercedes will win. But if anyone gets close, it could be Piastri, and he might spoil their party. That would put Mercedes in a tricky situation — if McLaren’s car is fast, they might have to focus on covering one driver and give up on the other, which can cause problems.”
Montoya, a favourite for many F1 fans and one of the best drivers never to win a World Championship, raced for Williams and McLaren from 2001 to 2006. He took part in 94 races, won seven, and stood on the podium 30 times.
McLaren and its fans will be hoping Montoya’s prediction comes true and that Piastri can upset Mercedes’ dominance in Miami this weekend.