Piastri put on the spot by Australian TV with Lando Norris question

Piastri led the drivers' standings for much of the season, but finished third overall in the season after a difficult spell following the Italian Grand Prix, while Norris went on to be crowned champion.

During the off-season, Piastri travelled home to Australia for the holidays. The Ashes series is currently taking place in the McLaren driver's home country, and as a cricket fan, Piastri also attended the Melbourne test.

In an interview with Channel 7, Piastri was asked by the reporter: "Now, it’s just you and me. Is Lando a mate of yours? Good bloke?"

Piastri answered with a smile: "No, he’s good, he’s good. We get on well. We work together well.

"But yeah, I think we’re going to be battling each other hopefully for championships for many years to come," he concluded.

Local media showed continuous support for their home hero Piastri throughout the season.

In reports, they also took jabs at McLaren beginning with the Italian Grand Prix. In one segment, for example, the presenter concluded: "Let’s hope Oscar can do it next year… if McLaren don’t work against him."

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