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Oscar Piastri has revealed how the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix with Lewis Hamilton turned out to be his “most awkward” cooldown room encounter in F1.
Piastri has capitalized on McLaren’s impressive form this season, securing seven podium finishes to add to his two from his rookie year. Despite the usual opportunity for drivers to discuss their races before taking the podium, Piastri shared a particularly awkward moment in Spa-Francorchamps. Following a tense race where George Russell’s disqualification shuffled the results, Hamilton’s subdued mood was evident as Piastri observed the post-race scene in silence. The Australian driver acknowledged the challenge of maintaining friendships in such a competitive environment, with mutual respect coexisting alongside the fierce rivalry on the track. While true friendships within the grid may be rare, the shared experiences and sacrifices in reaching Formula 1 create a unique dynamic among the drivers.