P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren singles out "exceptional" Japan podium as Piastri’s F1 2023 highlight
Oscar Piastri had an impressive debut season in Formula 1, achieving two podiums and a pole-to-flag win in Qatar. Although he was still behind his more experienced teammate Lando Norris in terms of race performances, Piastri showed maturity and impressed McLaren’s team principal, Stella. Piastri’s maiden podium at Suzuka was seen as the highlight of his season, especially considering that he had never raced on the challenging track before. Stella praised Piastri’s speed, ability to learn quickly, collaboration with engineers, and calm and controlled demeanor. Piastri’s extensive testing program in 2022 helped him adapt to unfamiliar tracks, especially with the introduction of sprint weekends.
