Oscar Piastri Honored with Grandstand at Australian GP

Melbourne, Aug 19 (AP) – Formula 1 championship leader Oscar Piastri is set to enjoy a unique honor at next year’s Australian Grand Prix: a grandstand dedicated to his name at Melbourne’s Albert Park.

It was announced late Monday by the Australian GP that the Piastri Grandstand will be prominently positioned on the main straight, directly opposite the pit lane. This development adds a local flavor for the Melbourne-born and raised Piastri, who is commanding the F1 championship tally after 14 of the season’s 24 races.

Piastri, who is 24, achieved second place behind his McLaren teammate Lando Norris at the Hungarian Grand Prix on August 3. In this honor, Piastri follows the footsteps of fellow Australians who have had grandstands named after them, such as racing legends Jack Brabham, Alan Jones, Daniel Ricciardo, and Mark Webber.

“It feels very surreal, and I never thought this would happen but the support is incredible and I can't wait to see it all come together next March,” Piastri expressed. “Seeing all the fans in my own grandstand directly opposite the McLaren garage is going to be an amazing experience and I'm really looking forward to feeling the energy and the atmosphere.”

Piastri leads the F1 standings with 284 points, bolstered by 12 podium finishes this season. His teammate Norris is closely behind with 275 points, also achieved through 12 podium finishes. Defending champion Max Verstappen holds third place with 187 points for Red Bull, while George Russell in his Mercedes holds fourth with 172 points, and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc rounds out the top five with 151 points.

The excitement culminates when the Australian GP unfolds on March 8, 2026. (AP)

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