Piastri opens up on challenges, growth and key support in festive message

09:47, 25 Dec

bySamson Ero

Oscar Piastri has shared a heartfelt Christmas message with fans after what he described as a “great but tough” 2025 Formula 1 season with McLaren.

“It’s obviously been a great season, a tough season as well.”

- Oscar Piastri

The 24-year-old, who finished third in the drivers’ championship, took to social media to reflect on a demanding campaign while thanking supporters for standing by him throughout the year.

“Hey everyone, I just want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you're enjoying it, however that looks like for you, and I also just want to say thank you very much for all the support that I've had this year,” he said.

Reflecting on the contrasting phases of his season, the Australian highlighted the lessons learned and his excitement for what lies ahead.

“It’s obviously been a great season, a tough season as well, plenty of lessons learned and where to take them in the future, which I’m very excited about. But I’m also very excited to be going home with everyone. Thank you very much for all the support this year.”

Oscar Piastri in Abu Dhabi - Photo: Race Pictures

Piastri also underlined the scale of backing he has felt throughout the season, both at the track and back home, as he looked ahead to the future with renewed motivation.

“It’s been incredible to feel it everywhere we’ve gone, and I’ve now been home for a few days, so to be able to feel the support from here at home as well has been pretty crazy. Thank you very much for all the support this year, and thanks for the support that I’m sure you’ll give in the future as well.”

“Enjoy your off-season. Enjoy your festive break, whether it’s summer or winter for you, and I will see you in the near future,” he concluded.

The Australian driver witnessed his maiden drivers’ title charge fall short after holding a commanding lead in the championship.

Piastri, who won seven of the first 15 races of the season, could only muster three in the last nine Grands Prix, which subsequently translated to him losing his lead atop the drivers’ standings to team-mate and 2025 champion, Lando Norris.

Steiner backs Piastri to bounce back from title defeat

Former F1 team boss Guenther Steiner has backed Piastri to mount a firm challenge for the drivers’ championship in the future, provided he is in the right car.

The 60-year-old stressed his belief in the talent of the Australian, noting how the 2025 title slip-up will serve as a learning curve for future seasons.

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