Oscar Piastri reacts to "smooth" F1 pre-season test session

Oscar Piastri completed his first laps in an official F1 session as a McLaren driver on day one of pre-season testing in Bahrain.

Oscar Piastri on track in Bahrain. (Pirelli)

The Australian completed 52 laps in the morning session, setting a fastest lap of 1:34.888.

Despite being just over two seconds behind leader Max Verstappen and only 18th-fastest at the end of the day, Piastri says his session was focused on settling into the car and gaining experience with the 2023 machinery.

“My first morning of testing went pretty smoothly which is a good start to the season,” said Piastri.

“We got through the programme we wanted to, which was great, with the focus being on getting myself back up to speed and used to the new generation of F1 cars.”

“There is still a lot to learn and improvements to make but I think I’m getting there.”

“It was good to get some laps on the board and everything felt pretty comfy.”

“I’m looking forward to my next few sessions to keep improving and learning more about the car.” 

Formula 1 pre-season testing continues on Friday and Saturday in Bahrain.

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