Oscar Piastri experienced a challenging setback at the 2025 British Grand Prix, where a controversial 10-second penalty cost him a potential victory. Leading the race, Piastri braked abruptly while following the safety car on lap 21, causing Max Verstappen to take evasive action and spin out during the restart. Race stewards penalized Piastri for the incident, a decision that McLaren team principal Andrea Stella criticized as harsh. As a result, Piastri finished second, reducing his championship lead over teammate Lando Norris to eight points after 12 of 24 races.

Piastri expressed deep frustration, stating, “When you don’t get the result you think you deserve, it hurts.”  He briefly hoped McLaren would consider switching positions to restore his win but accepted the situation when informed otherwise. Stella defended Piastri’s radio inquiry, praising the driver’s open communication. Despite the setback, Piastri expressed gratitude to the Silverstone crowd and reaffirmed his affection for the iconic circuit.

The race was marred by heavy rain, multiple crashes, and three safety car deployments, with five cars failing to finish.Veteran Nico Hülkenberg claimed his first-ever podium in his 239th race, finishing third behind Piastri. Lewis Hamilton, chasing a podium in his debut season with Ferrari, ultimately came fourth.

The outcome and Stella’s comments have fueled speculation that McLaren may be backing Piastri’s title bid over Norris this season