For Oscar Piastri and Jack Doohan, the Australian Grand Prix this Sunday is more than just another race; it’s the beginning of their upcoming adventures in Formula 1.
Looking back at last year, Piastri played a pivotal role in McLaren clinching the constructors’ championship for the first time since 1998. Now, his sights are set on claiming the drivers’ championship. “I genuinely believe I can be world champion this year,” he said. “A year ago, I entered the season with some weaknesses that dented my confidence. But I’ve worked on those last season. Now, it’s all about consistently improving each weekend and giving it my all. That will be the game-changer.”
On the other hand, Doohan, now stepping up as one of five rookies this season after Alpine elevated him from a reserve position, has simpler goals in mind. “I need to get the maximum potential out of the car— from its aerodynamics and power unit to the mechanical aspects. If the car is capable of scoring points, I intend to be right there,” he explained. He emphasized the importance of working well with teammate Pierre Gasly to advance the team up the grid, aiming to push Alpine back to the forefront.
During the winter, Alpine made strategic moves by signing a multiyear contract with Franco Colapinto from Williams as a reserve driver, indicating a plan for a future permanent spot. Colapinto left a lasting impression after taking over for Logan Sargeant in the season’s last nine Grands Prix.
Flavio Briatore, a former team principal and now an executive adviser at Alpine, praised Colapinto, calling him “among the best young talents in motorsport today.” Doohan definitely feels the pressure to perform in order to maintain his spot, given the competition buzzing around within the team.
Reflecting on his journey, Doohan, son of five-time Grand Prix motorcycle racing champion Mick Doohan, shared, “Being one of only 20 drivers in Formula 1 is a dream. It’s a harsh sport, so there’s always pressure from within and outside the team.”
Maria Catarineu, part of Colapinto’s management, highlighted Briatore’s relentless pursuit of Colapinto. “He was adamant about wanting Franco, consistently pushing for it,” she noted. Even Briatore acknowledged Colapinto’s entry into Formula 1 took many by surprise, him included, due to Colapinto’s impressive rookie performances.
With an eye on the future, Briatore remarked, “His inclusion means we have an excellent pool of young drivers to work with, which will contribute to our team’s success.”
Alpine’s team principal, Oliver Oakes, expressed sympathy for Doohan’s situation but insisted on giving him some breathing room. “Ultimately, like every driver, Jack needs to prove himself. He’s done an admirable job staying focused amidst the noise,” Oakes stated.
Adding more perspective, Oakes commented on the pressure accompanying Colapinto’s signing, “Pressure exists in all racing categories. Be it F1 or junior levels. Given Colapinto’s success last year, it’s understandable people are talking.”
For Doohan, racing in Melbourne is a thrilling prospect. It’s the first time since 2019 that Albert Park is hosting the season opener. “I love this circuit,” he said. “It’s a tricky blend of street and permanent tracks, which can be slippery. But a strong start here can set the tone for the rest of the year.”
Piastri, a Melbourne native, is now kicking off his third year with McLaren. Remembering his rookie days, he recalls being glad that Australia wasn’t the first race back in 2023, saying it would have been overwhelming. With more experience under his belt, he is now ready for the spotlight. “I’m genuinely excited about starting here. Growing up, this is how I remember Melbourne. Fans will definitely look forward to seeing what’s in store this year,” remarked Piastri.
He believes the Melbourne circuit offers a better performance gauge for the season ahead than Bahrain, which has traditionally opened the season for the last few years. “Bahrain hasn’t always been our strongest, but Melbourne suits us. It’s a fair mix and smoother compared to Bahrain’s rough track,” he shared.
Having clinched last season’s constructors’ title, McLaren is one of the favorites this year, with Piastri and teammate Lando Norris among the top contenders. Piastri is eyeing an opportunity to make history, as no Aussie has placed in the top three at an Australian Grand Prix in its 38 previous outings, apart from Daniel Ricciardo’s unfortunate disqualification in 2014.
Reflecting on last year’s performance, Piastri highlighted areas for improvement. “There were weekends I wasn’t as strong as I hoped. Addressing this quicker is crucial,” he admitted. Fine-tuning his qualifying performance is a focus area, but for Piastri, it’s more than just that — it’s about holistic improvement leading to natural confidence.
Team dynamics could get interesting if Norris and Piastri emerge as frontrunners for the title. McLaren’s team principal, Andrea Stella, welcomes the potential challenges. “It shows we’re doing well. Our drivers start with equal opportunities, and we count on solid conversations and principles to manage it,” Stella expressed.
Piastri remains optimistic about battling alongside Norris. “We’ll race hard but fair. Hopefully, it’s often for the top two spots,” he concluded.
