McLaren has started 2025 on the right foot, winning both of the first two races. Oscar Piastri began by analyzing the team’s performance in China to outline his expectations for Japan. Will other teams be able to close the gap, or is McLaren ready to strengthen its dominance?
The first two rounds of the season
McLaren has shown strong pace since pre-season testing in Bahrain. Once in Australia, the team confirmed itself as the one to beat. Lando Norris dominated the race, leaving no chance for his rivals despite Verstappen’s late charge. Oscar Piastri also had a solid weekend until the race, but rain caught him out, sending him off track and dropping him down the order.
The weekend ended with Lando Norris securing the maximum points haul, while Oscar Piastri had to settle for ninth place, bringing home just two points. Despite this, McLaren managed to claim the top spot in the Constructors’ Championship, tied with Mercedes.
In China, however, the story was different, as McLaren did not display the same superiority over its rivals—at least until Saturday. The Sprint Shootout and Sprint Race were won by Lewis Hamilton in the Ferrari. However, McLaren bounced back for the main race, securing a one-two finish, though their competitors were not far behind.
Oscar Piastri looks ahead to Japan
In the press conference, the McLaren driver gave a clear response when asked how much confidence the double podium gives him ahead of Suzuka. “A lot. I think we’ve had a fast car, but this weekend wasn’t as straightforward as Melbourne.”
“Achieving this result here in Shanghai is a really encouraging sign for us. There will still be challenges ahead and things we can work on. But we’re in a pretty good position right now and feeling ready to take on the rest of the season.”
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