Piastri Takes F1 Lead with Saudi Stunner, But Says “Job’s Not Done Yet”

Oscar Piastri has put Australia back on top of the Formula One world championship for the first time in over a decade after a commanding win at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, but the McLaren star insists he’s not celebrating just yet.With three victories in the opening five races, the 24-year-old Melburnian now leads the championship standings by 10 points over teammate Lando Norris. It’s the first time an Australian has topped the table since Mark Webber who is now Piastri’s manager did so with Red Bull in 2010.Despite the milestone, Piastri remained typically composed in the aftermath of his back-to-back wins. “I’m not that bothered by the fact that I’m leading the championship,” he said post-race, “but I’m proud of the work and the reasons behind why we’re leading.”After a frustrating ninth-place finish in his home Grand Prix in Melbourne, Piastri has roared back into title contention with stunning performances that reflect the fruits of a productive off-season. “I’ve felt in a good place since the first session of the year,” he added. “This is about more than just one race, it’s about all the effort that’s gone in behind the scenes.”While reigning world champion Max Verstappen had to settle for second in Jeddah after a thrilling early battle with the McLaren, he was quick to praise the new frontrunner.“Oscar’s very calm and consistent — and he delivers,” said Verstappen. “He’s using his talent well, and with Mark Webber advising him, he’s got a strong team behind him.”Still, Piastri’s focus remains firmly on the long game: “I want to be leading after round 24, not just round five.”With the title race heating up and the paddock starting to take serious notice, one thing’s clear — there’s a new force in Formula One, and his name is Oscar Piastri.