Rear grip losses are costing Piastri more

Monday’s analysis of Oscar Piastri’s difficulties identifies a possible chain reaction: more rear sliding costs time on corner exits, then demands more electrical energy to regain speed. A lower battery charge can subsequently hurt straight-line performance. That technical explanation remains an interpretation, not a proven single cause of his deficit.

At Zandvoort, Piastri finished sixth while Norris won, after a slow stop and rear-tyre problems. The Australian himself suggests the car’s balance may depend too heavily on fresh-tyre grip.

The issue therefore extends beyond a best lap: McLaren must help him retain that balance as the tyres age. The car has improved, but its two drivers are not yet extracting the same benefits in races.