Helmut Marko, a key figure in Red Bull’s driver program, has marked Oscar Piastri as a rising star in Formula 1, yet asserts the Australian is still not quite on par with Max Verstappen’s prowess.
Oscar Piastri’s entry into Formula 1 has been nothing short of impressive. Joining McLaren in 2023 after a stellar junior career, he quickly proved his worth by clinching five wins in the 2026 season alone. This achievement places him at the top of the Drivers’ Championship standings, edging out his teammate Lando Norris by 10 points. His performance has turned the eyes of many, including Helmut Marko, who praised Piastri’s quick learning and analytical coolness.
Marko, who has nurtured numerous young talents, admires how Piastri remains steady and committed in high-pressure moments. In contrast, he sees Lando Norris as more of a trial-and-error competitor, lacking the consistency that Piastri shows. Yet, Marko does not hesitate to remind that Piastri has some way to go before reaching Verstappen, who set new standards after debuting at 17 during a dominant Mercedes era.
Verstappen, a four-time World Champion, currently trails Piastri and Norris in the standings but remains a significant threat. His experience and singular focus from Red Bull could turn the tables. Piastri acknowledges this dynamic, noting that the luxury McLaren has of two top-performing drivers is both a blessing and a challenge.
The championship battle has intensified with McLaren’s policy of allowing both drivers equal shots at the title. Zak Brown, McLaren’s boss, emphasizes that there will be no team orders until the math demands it. The approach puts Piastri and Norris in a unique position as both allies and rivals.
Despite McLaren’s current edge, Piastri maintains a respectful vigilance over Verstappen’s potential to disrupt their lead. This respect underscores the competitiveness that mark his and Norris’s championship journey, pushing each other to new heights with every race.
While Oscar Piastri garners admiration for his swift rise in Formula 1, the shadow of Max Verstappen looms large. With McLaren’s no-holds-barred strategy, Piastri is poised to carve his name deeper into the sport, though the journey is marked with fierce competition and challenges from both within and outside his team.
