The F1 Australian GP press conference ahead of this weekend’s race in Melbourne featured two homegrown talents, Jack Doohan and Oscar Piastri, both navigating the excitement and pressure of competing on home soil.
For Jack Doohan, it’s only his second F1 start at his home race. Sitting alongside his fellow Aussie Oscar Piastri, the 22-year-old was clearly eager to hit the track.
“I’m super keen to get on the track. There’s been so much build-up since Abu Dhabi, so I’m excited to get to tomorrow. I’m just looking forward to driving.”
The significance of racing at home isn’t lost on him, but Doohan seems to be taking it all in stride. When asked about handling the pressure, he admitted there’s added weight — especially with the presence of another Australian driver on the grid.
“We probably have more pressure than other home races, especially with two of us. But I worked early with the team in the off-season and I’m mentally and physically ready. I’ve done the groundwork, so the pressure shouldn’t really be an issue. I’m just focused on driving.”
Advice from Piastri | enjoy the moment
Oscar Piastri, who made his F1 home race debut in 2023, offered some valuable advice to Doohan about handling the demands of a home race weekend.
“Just enjoy it. You only make your home race debut once. It’s a busy weekend — busier than everywhere else — but it’s special. Growing up 15 minutes down the road made it even more so for me. So just soak it all in and enjoy it.”
Piastri’s calm demeanour and experience as a race-winning contender with McLaren are reflected in his advice. Having experienced the intensity of a home race himself, he knows firsthand how easy it is to get swept up in the chaos of the weekend.
Australian representation on the grid
With Doohan now joining Piastri on the grid, Australian representation in Formula One is the strongest it’s been in years. Piastri was asked about how it feels to see another Australian driver make it to the top level of motorsport — and whether Doohan deserves his seat.
“It’s always nice to have another Aussie on the grid. Jack deserves it — he had a lot of success in his junior career. It’s not easy coming back into a race seat after time on the sidelines, especially in an F1 car. But Jack’s proved he’s earned his place.”
Embracing the challenge
As the lights go out at Albert Park this weekend for the F1 Australian GP, both Doohan and Piastri will face the high expectations of a passionate crowd. Doohan’s calm approach to pressure and Piastri’s experience at managing the chaos of a home race will be key factors in their performance.
For Doohan, this is the start of an exciting chapter in his career. For Piastri, it’s another chance to solidify his place among the elite. Whatever the outcome, Australian fans have plenty to look forward to as two homegrown stars take to the track.
