Martin Brundle expects Oscar Piastri to "come back with a vengeance" after losing last year's title. Punters might back Piastri for early-season podiums or an each-way bet at the Australian GP, while longer-term markets could favour Mercedes to lead the 2026 pecking order after regulation changes and strong pre-season testing.
Brundle: Piastri Ready to Return Strong After 2025 Heartbreak
Oscar Piastri heads into the 2026 build-up with reputation intact but a point to prove. After leading his team-mate Lando Norris by 34 points with nine races left Formula 1 last season, Piastri produced one of the sport’s most remarkable runs — 14 podiums in 15 races, the only exception a fourth in Canada — before a late slump cost him the title challenge.
How the Title Slipped Away
A run of six races without a podium allowed Norris to seize momentum and Piastri ultimately finished third in the drivers’ standings, behind Lando Norris and Max Verstappen. The reversal underlined weaknesses Piastri and McLaren must address if they are to convert early-season form into a championship tilt.
Brundle’s Take
Martin Brundle believes the setback will fuel Piastri’s motivation. "I think he'll come back with a vengeance," he said, adding that last year was "partly painful, partly brilliant" and a steep learning curve. Brundle also flagged a specific area for improvement: on low-grip circuits Piastri needs to extract more from the car and tyres.
Regulation Reset and the 2026 Title Picture
Rule changes for 2026 create the potential for a reshuffle at the front. McLaren won the previous Constructors’ title, but the regulation reset opens the door for rivals to close the gap. Early market consensus lists Mercedes as favourites to lead the grid when the season begins.
Pre-season Tests to Watch
A Barcelona shakedown is complete and official Bahrain tests (February 11–13 and February 18–20) should reveal more about the new cars’ pecking order. These sessions will be crucial for teams to validate concepts and for bookmakers to adjust odds ahead of the opening round.
Key Dates and the Opening Weekend
The 2026 season opens at Piastri’s home race in Melbourne. The Australian Grand Prix runs March 6–8, with first practice on March 6, qualifying on March 7 and the race on March 8. Expect early-season form in Melbourne to shape both short-term betting markets and the narrative for the championship fight.
Betting Implications
Piastri’s mix of raw speed and proven consistency makes him an attractive short-term bet for podiums and an each-way play at the Australian GP.
Given regulation changes, consider hedged longer-term positions: back Piastri or McLaren for stage wins early in the season while monitoring Bahrain test form; add Mercedes to season-long markets if their pre-season pace looks authoritative.
Final Verdict
Piastri leaves last season with lessons learned and momentum to regain. If he tightens his low-grip performance and McLaren adapt well to the new rules, he could be a leading contender from the outset — and an appealing option for punters looking for value in both race-by-race and season-long markets.
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Martin Brundle expects Oscar Piastri to "come back with a vengeance" after narrowly missing out on a maiden Formula 1 title last year.
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