McLaren’s Oscar Piastri reflects on holding off Mercedes in stunning Suzuka podium. Oscar Piastri impressed at the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka.

What a weekend for Piastri

Oscar Piastri has always had a special connection with Suzuka, and he proved it again in the 2026 edition. The McLaren driver secured the third fastest time in qualifying and, at the start, capitalized on the Mercedes’ uncertainties at the lights to take the lead of the race.

Timing and the Safety Car

An unlucky timing with the Safety Car allowed Andrea Kimi Antonelli to take the race lead without having to overtake Oscar Piastri on track. Nevertheless, Piastri defended his second position until the checkered flag without any significant struggles.

Piastri’s surprising performance

“Did we think we could stay ahead of the Ferraris during the race? Yes, we knew that the gap in qualifying wasn’t entirely representative because clearly Leclerc and Hamilton had some energy management issues, but we hoped we could fight with them—and we did,” Oscar Piastri said in the press conference. “What really surprised me was seeing Russell stay behind me once George moved up to second position. Honestly, I thought it would take him half a lap to overtake me. So battling with the Ferraris was something we expected, yes, but keeping a Mercedes behind us was an even more pleasant surprise.”

Oscar Piastri’s performance at Suzuka highlights his growing maturity and tactical intelligence. By balancing raw speed with calculated defense, he not only secured a vital podium for McLaren but also sent a clear message to his rivals that he is a force to be reckoned with, regardless of the machinery advantage others might hold.