Oscar Piastri insists slippery new Azerbaijan GP track surface not an ‘easy’ challenge
Oscar Piastri notices the street circuit of Baku was unusually slippery making it difficult for drivers to get the most out of the car.
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Oscar Piastri (via IMAGO)
McLaren showed they were the fastest in the past two races, but their performance in the Azerbaijan GP’s practice sessions was less promising. In the second practice session, Oscar Piastri finished fifth, while his teammate Lando Norris was 17th. However, in the first practice session, Norris was fourth and Piastri was sixth. Piastri noted that the track conditions were poor and slippery, which likely affected their performance.
Oscar Piastri mentioned that the track was unusually slippery, more so than in recent years. This slipperiness made it challenging for drivers to get good lap times initially on Friday. However, as more cars run on the track, the surface gradually improved and provided better grip. Piastri pointed out that the improvement allowed the track to get faster and more predictable over time.
Very slippery, much slipperier than it has been, I would say, in the last few years, I think that’s why we’re seeing the track get quicker and quicker.Oscar Piastri told Speedcafe
Oscar Piastri explained that driving on Baku City circuit wasn’t easy and it was quite inconsistent. The track had uneven grip, making it hard for drivers to control their cars and predict handling in various sections. Despite these difficulties, he acknowledged that all drivers are facing the same challenges.
It’s not easy out there, definitely and it’s quite inconsistent, but the same challenge for everyone.Oscar Piastri added.
Oscar Piastri claims McLaren’s long run quite competitive compared to others
Oscar Piastri explained that Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes all seem to be performing well making the top four very competitive. He noted that McLaren’s long-run performance appears competitive compared to other team, which is a positive sign. However, he also pointed out that some other teams are setting very impressive lap times which can be a threat to McLare.
Ferrari look pretty strong, Red Bull look quick; and Mercedes as well. At the moment, anyone in the top four teams look good. Our long run seems quite competitive, which is good, but some people are putting down some big laps.Oscar Piastri stated.
Certainly, Oscar Piastri observed that McLaren is performing well in longer stints compared to the top four teams. However, the other leading teams are demonstrating impressive speed in shorter, fast laps. Fans hope that Saturday’s qualifying sessions will favor McLaren, allowing them to secure pole position and win the race on Sunday.
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Gaurang Kadam
(535 Articles Published)