No "numbers game" so far as Webber speaks out.

      "I’m truly thrilled by the progress he’s making."

      Oscar Piastri’s impressive performance at the Dutch GP has provided him with a comfortable lead in the championship, boasting a 34-point advantage over McLaren teammate Lando Norris with only nine races remaining. Starting from pole position, the Australian driver led every lap, secured the fastest lap, and appeared to have everything under control. Norris was close behind in second place until a late oil leak forced him to retire, allowing Piastri to enjoy his most decisive weekend to date.

      This achievement even elicited rare comments from Mark Webber, Piastri’s manager and a former F1 race winner, who typically avoids interviews. "I don’t generally engage in interviews like this," he stated to Sky Deutschland. "But today was a significant day for him. Other Australians like Daniel (Ricciardo), Jack (Brabham), and AJ (Alan Jones) have won here, and now Oscar has as well. I’m truly pleased with his advancement. He has put in a lot of effort."

      Webber, however, warned against celebrating too soon. "There are still many races ahead, so anything can happen," he noted. "I would be glad to check that (title) off my bucket list, but one must remain cautious and secure points whenever possible. He has also lost some points this season."

      Piastri himself maintained that he wouldn’t focus on the numbers, even though he could finish second to Norris five consecutive times and still retain the lead. "It was definitely unfortunate for Lando at the end," he remarked. "However, I felt in command of that race and utilized my pace when necessary. I wouldn’t describe it as a comfortable margin. As we witnessed today, a single DNF can change everything very rapidly. So, at this stage of the year, it’s not a reassuring gap."

      Dr. Helmut Marko from Red Bull expressed admiration once more for the 24-year-old's dominance. "Piastri controlled the race effortlessly," he remarked. "Whenever Norris closed in, he simply upped the pace."