Oscar Piastri says there’s “nothing surprising” concerning the prospect of going wheel-to-wheel with Max Verstappen on the opening lap of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Piastri pipped Verstappen to take pole at Imola – the third of his F1 profession.
The Australian is using a wave of momentum, having received 4 of the final six races.
Regardless of Pink Bull’s lack of tempo relative to McLaren, Verstappen has posed a severe risk.
Verstappen and Piastri went head-to-head on the opening lap of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
Verstappen was handed a five-second penalty after the stewards deemed he gained a bonus by slicing the primary nook.
The duo additionally fought laborious in Miami, with Piastri popping out on high.
Looking forward to the battle on the opening lap with Verstappen, Piastri was requested
if he anticipated the four-time world champion to hit again after the pair’s battle in Saudi Arabia.
He advised Sky Sports activities: “Not likely. I believe we all know how one another races. That’s each very laborious.
“Definitely not anticipating any return of serve as a result of I believe that’s going to be the serve each single time. Nothing surprising for tomorrow.”
Piastri assured in McLaren race tempo
Piastri is using a wave of momentum after successful 4 of the earlier six races.
He sits 16 factors clear within the drivers’ championship, whereas Verstappen is 32 factors behind in third.
Reflecting on qualifying, Piastri mentioned: “I assumed it might be me, Lando and Max. Even yesterday I assumed it might be me, Lando and Max, and that was the case.
“The primary lap in Q3 for me felt good and I noticed Max went a bit faster so I knew his should have been strong as properly and I needed to discover a bit extra. The second lap was an excellent one, so very completely satisfied.
“We have now good tempo this weekend. I believe our race tempo must be robust. Let’s see what occurs at Flip 1. I’ll strive andget one of the best begin I can and maintain the lead.
“If I don’t, I don’t suppose it’s the top of my probabilities for victory. Let’s see what occurs.”