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Piastri Unsure If System Removal Will Impact Red Bull

Piastri Claims Red Bull Is ‘Clearly Breaking’ F1 Rules

17/10/2024

Oscar Piastri has yet to gather all the details concerning the controversy over Red Bull’s ride height, but the McLaren F1 driver has received information suggesting the RB20 may have exceeded legal limits.

“It’s not really my place to get involved in that,” Piastri commented. “Honestly, I don’t know much about it. I think for us, we obviously push the boundaries of the technical regulations. Everyone does; it’s what makes Formula 1 what it is.”

“But from what I’ve heard and been told, something like this doesn’t just push the limits—it clearly breaks them. I haven’t heard which car it’s installed on, nor if it’s on just one car.”

“Obviously, there have been reports about this in the last few minutes; Red Bull seems to have confirmed it. But if it’s something that has been used, it’s clearly out of the grey area and into the black.”

“If there’s a significant performance difference, then clearly there will be questions. If not… you know, like our mini DRS, so to speak, was legal, even though we had to make a few changes. It’s not revolutionary for the car. We’ll see if it has an impact on them.”

Piastri a title contender as early as 2025?

When questioned about the possibility of contending for the world title next year if the upcoming MCL39 is as competitive as its predecessor, Piastri is cautious but doesn’t dismiss ambitious goals: “Yes and no. With a car like the one we currently have, it would be natural to think that the title is within reach.”

“But I want to learn as much as possible at the end of this season; I want good results, and what I learn this year will serve me next year. I’m aware that if we have a fast car, it could be achievable, but I don’t want to focus on that.”

The Australian downplays the new developments introduced by McLaren this weekend but admits they are elements that could nonetheless have a positive effect on the overall pace of the formidable MCL38.

“The updates aren’t going to change the world. They simply advance the package we’ve had for months; they’re small tweaks to improve our competitiveness. Every component helps, but the fundamental performance of the car has been strong for a long time. I think we’ll be strong.”

Piastri’s primary goal is to help McLaren secure the title, but he’ll also assist Norris if he can: “The first thing is the Constructors’ Championship. We’ve now got a nice lead, and that’s good; it’s an achievable goal.”

“As for the rest, I just want to keep progressing and achieve the best possible results. I’m learning as much as I can, and if I perform well, that’ll help the team and could help Lando. I want to finish first in every session this weekend; I know it’s not easy, but if I manage it, I’ll learn things!”

Piastri Appreciates Max Verstappen’s Support

Piastri responded to Max Verstappen’s comment that the Australian is too good to be merely Lando Norris’s wingman at McLaren. Could this sow discord among the orange-clad rivals?

Piastri addressed the Dutchman’s remarks and reiterated that he’s trying to do his best for McLaren.

“Personally, I think Max is a very straightforward guy. He says what he thinks—we all know that. In my position, I don’t see it as a number one or number two role. If I perform well and deserve it, then, as we’ve already said… Baku is a perfect example, really, of not giving up everything this season solely for Lando’s benefit.”

“I’m trying to help the team as best I can. So it’s not simply a number one or number two role. We always have the same car. We always have the same opportunities. And the following weekend in Singapore, Lando did a better job than me and won the race. I appreciate Max’s support, but that’s not really how I see things.”

Piastri Unsure If System Removal Will Impact Red Bull

Piastri Unsure If System Removal Will Impact Red Bull Piastri Unsure If System Removal Will Impact Red Bull

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