Johnny Herbert shows no sympathy for Oscar Piastri after the Aussie narrowly lost the title to his teammate Lando Norris. The former Formula 1 driver claims Piastri squandered his chance to win the world championship. The Australian was leading the drivers’ standings for a long time in 2025. “Max wouldn’t have let that happen, and neither would Lando,” Herbert stated.
Oscar Piastri was on track for his first world title in 2025 until a dip in form derailed his chances. After retiring in Azerbaijan, the Aussie failed to reach the podium for four races, while rival Lando Norris seized the opportunity, winning twice during that stretch. The Brit overtook his teammate in the championship standings and ultimately clinched his first world title in Abu Dhabi. Piastri couldn’t even hold onto his second place; Max Verstappen also passed the McLaren driver.
According to Johnny Herbert, Piastri ultimately fell short in mental resilience. “I have no sympathy for Oscar Piastri because he had a fantastic season and ended it on a high note,” the Brit told a betting platform. “He had a strong start, and everything seemed to be working in his favor.”
Mental Resilience: A Crucial Factor in F1
All eyes were on Baku as the Formula 1 circus rolled into Azerbaijan for the Grand Prix weekend. “For some reason, Piastri let it slip through his fingers. The quality we had seen from him before just vanished,” said Herbert, reflecting on the Australian’s shocking performance. Piastri crashed in the opening lap at the Baku City Circuit. “People always talk about his mental resilience. But I actually think it’s his mental strength that needs to be bolstered,” he added.
Herbert didn’t hold back, stating it was Piastri’s own fault for not bringing home the world title. “He needs to be mentally tougher. In the position he was in (championship leader), it should have been a done deal,” Herbert insisted. He drew sharp contrasts with Piastri’s title rivals, saying, “Max wouldn’t have let that happen. Lando wouldn’t have either. He grew and took on the role of the number one driver in the team.”
