Oscar Piastri doesn’t need to shout to become an F1 world champion

Formula 1 has long been fueled by high-octane egos and explosive rivalries. Fiery outbursts have practically become a prerequisite for greatness in the series, which is why the rise of Oscar Piastri – disarmingly calm and cool under pressure – feels like such a departure. While other drivers air their frustrations over team radio or let adrenaline get the better of them, the 23-year-old McLaren prodigy has proved that he’s measured, unfazed, and composed at every turn. 

Since joining the grid in 2023, Piastri has been difficult to categorize. He replaced fellow Aussie Daniel Ricciardo at the papaya outfit, but showed little interest in filling his predecessor’s shoes as the scene-stealing showman (there are no shoey’s in sight). He’s not flashy, but he’s known for his dry humor and quick wit; and his quiet coolness has helped him build a loyal following over the past few years. 

Now that he’s fighting at the top-end of the grid – and has a real shot at becoming world champion – the Australian’s every move is under scrutiny, from his team radio messages to comments made in the cool down room. For fans who have become accustomed to expect explosive levels of frustration or anger from their favorite drivers, Piastri’s ability to regulate his emotions is a breath of fresh air.

“I try to make sure I’m staying calm – keeping my personality as it always has been – and just try to drive fast…I try to catch myself if I’m starting to get too into the details,” he told Forbes Australia earlier this year. When asked how he handles the pressure, his response was typically no-nonsense: “Taking a break makes sure I’m still enjoying what I’m doing.” 

Much has been made of Piastri’s ability to absorb setbacks and quietly go about the business of improving. He’s unwavering in his refusal to be rattled – not even a disappointing result at his home race in Melbourne elicited an impassioned response. At the time, team principal Andrea Stella told Motorsport.com that Piastri was “one of the mentally strongest drivers” he’s ever worked with. 

Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Andrea Stella, McLaren

Photo by: Peter Fox / Getty Images

Some fans have their own theory – rooted in Piastri’s upbringing. He was raised in Melbourne alongside his three younger sisters: Hattie, Edie, and Mae. Research shows that men with sisters often grow into more emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and mentally resilient adults. A study by Brigham Young University in Utah found that these men were better at communication and managing conflict, and showed higher levels of prosocial behavior. Another report published in The Journal of Family Psychology found that sisters can reduce feelings of guilt, fear, and loneliness in boys – while boosting kindness and generosity.

In other words: growing up in a household full of women can give men a toolkit they’re not often encouraged to develop. It’s easy to imagine a young Piastri who learned to listen before speaking and discovered that sensitivity isn’t a disadvantage. He is proof that male athletes can harness softness without weakness – and still produce ruthless results. 

“Just because I’m calm doesn’t mean I’m not ruthless,” he previously told Sky Sports. “It doesn’t have to come at the expense of being calm and a nice person as well.” It’s a sentiment that’s been echoed by his team-mate, Lando Norris, who’s made no secret of the fact he wants to become a world champion while remaining a “nice guy.” (And while we’re noting similarities, Norris is also a big brother to two younger sisters).

In a sport where maturity is often forged in fire, Piastri seems to have shown up ahead of the curve. He isn’t just a world champion in waiting; he’s quietly challenging the stereotype of what greatness in F1 has to look like. Calm doesn’t mean cold and emotional intelligence doesn’t dull a competitive edge. He’s the kind of threat you don’t see coming — until he’s already passed you on track.