At the Austrian Grand Prix, Lando Norris employed a smart DRS technique to defend his position against McLaren teammate and championship rival Oscar Piastri, a key moment highlighting Oscar Piastri DRS defense strategy. Norris disclosed that he briefly closed his rear wing before reopening it within the DRS zone between turns 3 and 4, aiming to disrupt Piastri’s attempts to overtake.

Speaking to the media ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Norris explained the tactic was intended to maintain control and keep Piastri from making a successful pass during their tight race battle. This move allowed Norris to protect his lead in the highly competitive setting of the Austrian GP.

Norris’s Driving Adaptations and Teamwork

Despite some discomfort with the McLaren car’s behavior this season, Norris has concentrated on refining his driving skills and adapting to different styles. He emphasized his focus on improving his overall ability behind the wheel as a key area of development.

“Most of it is just how I can work on being a better driver in the situation of struggling with things that I don’t like or I’m not used to or changes on the car for this year,”

Norris shared, reflecting on his personal growth throughout the season.

Off the track, Norris credits a strong support group within his team for helping him approach race weekends more effectively, balancing training and strategy to perform consistently under pressure.

How the DRS Tactic Worked During the Austrian GP

During the race, Norris converted his pole position into a win, but not without fiercely guarding against multiple overtaking attempts by Piastri. Using his rear wing control, Norris manipulated his track position to keep Piastri confined to the outside line.

“It was to keep Oscar on the outside with the same speed,”

Norris explained.

“If I continued with DRS, I’d be ahead and he could maybe do the switchback or something. It was just to maintain my speed and keep him on my left wheel.”

This tactical decision forced Piastri into a defensive position, preventing him from easily passing and preserving Norris’s race pace and advantage through crucial sections of the track.

Race Dynamics and Final Podium Outcomes

A close moment occurred at Turn 4 where Piastri nearly locked his brakes while following closely behind Norris. Eventually, Norris was called into the pits as Piastri stayed out longer on his initial set of tires, a strategy that enabled Piastri to maintain pressure and secure second place.

Charles Leclerc of Ferrari completed the podium, finishing third behind the McLaren teammates in a race that emphasized precision and tactical awareness. The battle underscored the growing rivalry and competitive spirit between Norris and Piastri during this intense Formula 1 season.

Anticipating Future Battles on Track

This intelligent DRS defense strategy from Norris highlights the fine margins and strategic depth present in current Formula 1 racing. It illustrates how drivers not only depend on raw speed but also on split-second decisions to shape race outcomes.

Looking ahead, the ongoing contest between Norris and Piastri promises thrilling on-track battles, especially as both drivers continue to adapt and push their McLaren cars to the limit. The lessons learned from Austria will likely influence their tactics in upcoming Grands Prix, including the Belgian GP, as they fight for race wins and championship points.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Oscar Piastri a nice person?

A. This seems to be the first time Oscar Piastri, known for his calm nature and friendliness, appeared very upset after the race. I can understand why he felt that way. Where I come from, we’d call his reaction “grumpy.”

Q. Has Oscar Piastri ever won a race in F1?

A. By the time of the 2025 British Grand Prix, Piastri has won seven races in Formula One. He has also secured four pole positions and seven fastest laps, along with 20 podium finishes. Piastri’s contract with McLaren is valid until the end of the 2028 season.

Q. Has Oscar Piastri ever won a race?

A. Piastri has secured victory in seven Formula One Grand Prix races over three seasons. Growing up in Melbourne, he started with radio-controlled racing and switched to karting at age 10. He entered junior formulas in 2016 and achieved his first championship in the 2019 Formula Renault Eurocup with R-ace GP.