Oscar Piastri's stellar Formula 1 debut season applauded by Mark Webber

Former F1 driver Mark Webber, who manages Oscar Piastri, has expressed immense pride in the McLaren rookie's remarkable start in the world of Formula 1, describing it as "phenomenal, phenomenal."

Piastri's entry into McLaren in 2023 came after a notable contract dispute involving both McLaren and Alpine. He had previously served as a reserve driver for Alpine.

Following a year away from racing after securing consecutive F3 and F2 titles, Piastri found himself back in the spotlight, partnering with established driver Lando Norris. McLaren Team Principal Zak Brown acknowledged that Piastri would need to overcome some "race rustiness" due to his time away from the track.

Despite these challenges, the 22-year-old has excelled in his debut season. He secured his first points during his third Grand Prix on his home turf in Australia. Furthermore, he joined Norris at the forefront of the competition in Britain and Hungary, as McLaren's MCL60 package underwent significant enhancements.

Piastri's achievements included an impressive second-place finish in the Sprint race in Belgium, with Max Verstappen securing first place and Pierre Gasly finishing third.

During a recent interview with Formula 1.com, Webber expressed his admiration for the entire team's performance, stating, "The team has elevated itself to an exceptional level within a short span-we should acknowledge that. It's easy to forget that Oscar wasn't on the track last year.

"He's adapting to the demands of the F1 circuit for the first time, unlike a driver returning from a break. He was away for 15 months and had never raced in F1. Lando's performance has been exceptional, and Oscar has demonstrated remarkable composure... Needless to say, we're all very proud of him."

Webber emphasized that despite Piastri's impressive initial showing in the top tier of motorsport, the young driver is dedicated to improving further in the latter half of the season. "His inaugural year has been outstanding," noted the nine-time Grand Prix victor. "But knowing Oscar, he will persistently strive for enhancement and ongoing progress."

After 12 races, Piastri holds the 11th position in the drivers' standings, with teammate Norris securing a higher spot.

McLaren currently occupy the fifth position in the constructors' standings, amassing over 100 points at Spa-Francorchamps due to their enhanced performance.

Formula 1 enthusiasts can look forward to the Dutch Grand Prix, scheduled for 28 August at the Circuit Zandvoort, as the sport takes a summer break.