Manager Webber stands up for Piastri, stating he's 'only human.'

      "I believe Piastri was affected by the events at Monza."

      24 September 2025 - 11:54

      Former Red Bull driver Robert Doornbos suspects that Oscar Piastri’s significant mistakes in Baku may be connected to the controversy that unfolded at Monza a week prior. The championship leader, typically lauded for his calm demeanor, crashed during qualifying and again at the beginning of Sunday’s Grand Prix after jumping the start—an unexpected downturn while Max Verstappen surged ahead in the title race with consecutive wins from pole position at Monza and Baku. "It's notable that this occurred right after Monza, where there was some conflict," Doornbos told Ziggo Sport. "I believe Piastri was impacted by the situation at Monza. It was an unusual circumstance. Piastri had to yield six points to (Lando) Norris due to a slow pit stop." He pointed out that Norris faced another problematic stop in Baku. "They have a serious issue that requires resolution. I don’t think Oscar is feeling comfortable about that." Doornbos mentioned he had communicated with Piastri’s manager Mark Webber—also a former Red Bull driver—regarding the weekend. "I was in touch with his manager, Mark Webber. He mentioned that Oscar is just human. Let’s not forget that he doesn’t have much experience compared to someone like Max Verstappen." Unlike many who think that four-time consecutive world champion Verstappen cannot catch the McLarens this year, Doornbos cautioned that the drivers’ title is still up for grabs. "There is a risk. McLaren makes numerous mistakes, both from the drivers and during pit stops. That remains surprising," the Dutchman stated. Speaking on Ziggo’s De Stamtafel, he analyzed the situation. "Mathematically, it’s logical because if Max wins every race, and Oscar Piastri consistently finishes third, he would still win the title." Doornbos acknowledged that such a scenario would be uncommon but not impossible. "It’s feasible, as in 2013 Sebastian Vettel won the last nine races for Red Bull and ultimately became the world champion. Anything can happen, and Abu Dhabi has witnessed crazier season conclusions. However, it would indeed be a unique scenario," he conceded.