Breaking news: Oscar Piastri handed trophy ahead of Imola…. read more.
Oscar Piastri handed trophy ahead of Imola…. read more.
Oscar Piastri continues to impress in the 2025 Formula 1 season, extending his lead in the drivers’ championship by 16 points over McLaren teammate Lando Norris ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. The Australian driver, currently enjoying a stellar run of form, received a significant accolade in the lead-up to the race weekend — the prestigious Lorenzo Bandini Trophy.
The award, named in memory of Italian F1 driver Lorenzo Bandini who died following a crash at the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix, is presented annually to individuals in Formula 1 who demonstrate exceptional performance, character, and dedication to the sport. Piastri received the trophy at a ceremony in Brisighella, a town in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, not far from the Imola circuit.
By accepting the award, Piastri becomes only the third Australian to do so, following in the footsteps of his manager Mark Webber and fellow compatriot Daniel Ricciardo. Previous recipients also include top names like George Russell, who won in 2024, and Lando Norris, who was recognised the year before. The award is not limited to drivers — it has also been given to teams and prominent figures in F1, such as Mercedes, Ferrari, Stefano Domenicali, and Massimo Rivola.
Piastri expressed his gratitude both at the ceremony and online. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), he shared photos with the trophy and wrote: “Honoured to receive the Lorenzo Bandini trophy. Grazie a tutti!” During his speech, he reflected on his Italian heritage, saying, “It’s a real honour for me to receive this … and to meet some people from where the Piastri family is from has been a very special experience.” He added, “Hopefully that’s not the only time we hear the Australian anthem this week.”
Though he identifies as Australian, Piastri has previously acknowledged his Italian roots. Before last year’s Emilia Romagna GP, he surprised fans by revealing he is “3/16 Italian” in a social media post.
With this recognition under his belt and three consecutive Grand Prix victories — a feat only achieved by one other Australian in F1 history — Piastri enters Imola with growing momentum and confidence. The award could serve as further inspiration as he aims to extend his winning streak on Italian soil.
