Webber acknowledges that Piastri is 'behind' Norris towards the end of '24.

      "But ultimately, it was a fantastic season."

      By GMM

      9 March 2025 - 13:52

      Former F1 driver Mark Webber is somewhat guarded about whether McLaren and his protégé Oscar Piastri might be seen as the favorites heading into the 2025 season.

      “We’ll see,” the Australian, who now manages 23-year-old Piastri, remarked to RTBF during the first day of pre-season testing in Bahrain on Wednesday.

      After McLaren clinched the constructors’ championship last year, with Piastri’s teammate Lando Norris finishing second to drivers' title winner Max Verstappen, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner stated he doesn’t mind if McLaren starts the new season as the frontrunners.

      "There are numerous factors to consider," said Webber, who achieved all nine of his Grand Prix victories with Red Bull, to the Belgian broadcaster.

      "It’s crucial that the car performs competitively on every track and, most importantly, is reliable, especially since we’re kicking off with five races in just six weeks," he elaborated.

      "However, we’re clearly beginning on a strong foundation as the car was quite impressive in 2024."

      Regarding Piastri, he continues to be highly esteemed in the F1 paddock, but it’s undeniable that Norris had an edge last season.

      Another former F1 driver, Marc Surer, believes McLaren faces a dilemma. "If McLaren aims to win the championship, they need to establish Lando Norris as their number one driver," the Swiss commented. "Otherwise, Piastri could take points from him."

      Nevertheless, Piastri managed to secure a fourth overall finish in ’24, achieving his first two Grand Prix victories, while Norris had three wins that season.

      "Oscar had an amazing second year in Formula 1, even though he finished behind Lando," Webber conceded. "Yet, in the end, it was a remarkable season for him (Piastri) in ’24, accumulating a lot of points.

      "He gained valuable experience, and I hope he has a successful season."

      RTBF wrapped up its discussion with Webber by addressing one of the most talked-about topics in the paddock at present – Ferrari’s new driver duo.

      "Lewis (Hamilton) and Charles (Leclerc), what a pairing," Webber grinned. "This is fantastic for the sport. Lewis's move is beneficial for everyone.

      "But Leclerc is also a superstar, and I hold a great deal of respect for both of these individuals. This is all positive, for both Ferrari and Formula 1."