Jolyon Palmer thinks Oscar Piastri’s explanation for 2026 struggles is ‘amazing’

Former Renault driver Jolyon Palmer found it amazing that Oscar Piastri and George Russell are banding together over driving style issues. Speaking on the BBC's Chequered Flag podcast, Piastri explained that the reduced downforce and high power of the 2026 Formula 1 cars do not suit his natural preference for early corner exits. Piastri noted that he and Russell share similar strengths and struggles across different circuits under the new technical regulations.

Piastri currently trails McLaren teammate Lando Norris by 66 points in 2026, while Russell faces the same deficit to Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli. Palmer pointed out that when he struggled during the 2017 regulation changes, underperforming drivers never clubbed together to justify their difficulties. Piastri will next compete at the returning Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang.