Young Australian wins international FIA Formula 3 Championship
Sunday 13 September, 2020
Oscar Piastri is the new FIA Formula 3 Champion.
(Photo: Getty Images)
Oscar Piastri has won this year’s FIA Formula 3 Championship after a strong final round as part of this weekend’s Tuscan Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Leading the Championship heading into this weekend’s final round, Piastri secured the right results to see him edge out his nearest competitors and stand on the top step for 2020 and cement his status as one of Australia’s next top prospects.
Formula 3 teams have been racing as part of the condensed Formula 1 calendar, sharing the paddock with leading Formula 1 teams and drivers, including Motorsport Australia Ambassador Daniel Ricciardo.
The Melburnian was understandably elated with his win.
"I think the last few weeks have put me through a test emotionally... I still can't believe we won this," Piastri said post-race.
"I have been consistent over the year. We bounced back from all setbacks we've had. (We) had quite a few technical issues and other problems to deal with but keeping my head cool and my consistency has been the biggest thing."
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca congratulated the young Victorian for his outstanding achievement.
“To win a Championship at this level on the world stage is such an impressive feat and every Australian should be proud of Oscar’s efforts this season,” Arocca said.
“Winning the Formula 3 Championship is an important step on the pathway to Formula 1, and while we know there is much more work ahead of him, this success shows he is a rising star and one to watch in the future.
“On behalf of everyone at Motorsport Australia, we congratulate Oscar and his team on their outstanding win.”
Piastri was one of four Australian drivers competing in the F3 Championship this year, alongside Alex Peroni (who finished the year in ninth), Jack Doohan (26th) and Calan Williams (31st).
“The future of Australian motorsport is very bright and all four Formula 3 drivers deserve a hearty congratulations for their efforts this year, particularly living away from home and dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in their preparation
for each event,” Arocca added.
“We look forward to acknowledging their efforts here in Australia when it is possible to do so.”
Photo: Dutch Photo Agency