Piastri honoured with newly-discovered wasp species bearing his name

The research was conducted by Corentin Jouault, Di-Ying Huang and Celso O. Azevedo on a 98-million-year-old fossil from the Cretaceous Period discovered in Myanmar. In the paper published in the June edition of Palaeoworld, the researchers explained that the species was named in honour of Piastri's achievements in Formula 1. The name was chosen by Jonault, one of the study's authors, who proposed the tribute to Piastri.

They also noted that the amber specimen's colour reminded the lead author of McLaren's iconic papaya orange, helping inspire the decision. The scientific name was formally assigned using the genitive case, in keeping with standard taxonomic conventions: "The specific epithet honors Mr. Oscar Piastri for his achievements in Formula 1, and because the color of the amber piece recalled to the first author the iconic McLaren orange. It is to be treated as a noun in the genitive case."

The paper also noted that the newly-discovered species can be easily distinguished from other known members of the Gwesped genus thanks to its greater number of flagellomeres and its distinctive forewing venation pattern: "This species can be readily distinguished from the previously known Gwesped species by its higher number of flagellomeres and distinctive forewing venation."

Ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix weekend, Piastri played down speculation linking him with a future move to Red Bull should Verstappen part ways with the team at the end of the 2026 season.

Speaking to media, including GPblog, in Montreal, the Australian insisted no talks took place regarding a potential switch and stressed that he remains fully committed to his current team. While he admitted the rumours were complimentary and reflected positively on his reputation within the paddock, Piastri made it clear he has complete faith in the project he is currently part of and believes it can deliver race wins and championship success in the years ahead.