Piastri watched Verstappen closely in rain: 'That was quite useful'

Piastri, when still he was driving on slicks, was overtaken by race leader Verstappen. The McLaren driver took full advantage of this, as he kept a close eye on the lines the experienced Red Bull Racing driver was driving. Speaking to Motorsport.com, he explained the situation.

"Having Max right in front of me was actually quite useful in some ways, because that was my first time on slicks on a rainy track in an F1 car," said Piastri, who was able to keep up well with the cautious Dutchman. But even later on intermediates, he was able to match the two-time world champion. "Even when we came out on inters, I could keep with him quite well. Once the track dried up and he got a bit more comfortable, then he was a fair bit quicker. But initially, I was managing to keep behind him, which is the best I've been able to say that. So, it was nice."

The 22-year-old driver finished in the points for the second time this season. Earlier, Piastri finished eighth in Australia. He now boasts five points, good for 13th in the world championship. Teammate Lando Norris is 11th with 12 points.