Oscar Piastri reflects on 'uncomfortable' McLaren reality as key factor 'creeps' in

Oscar Piastri highlighted how the Italian Grand Prix has not been "as comfortable" as McLaren is used to after failing to qualify on the front row at Monza.

The Australian will start third, behind team-mate Lando Norris and Max Verstappen, who clinched pole and the outright fastest lap in F1 history.

Following the grid-setting session, the 24-year-old insisted "nothing major" went wrong with his final push lap at the Temple of Speed, whilst acknowledging the pace shown by the Woking squad's rivals so far this weekend.

"Nothing major," he replied when asked by Nico Rosberg what the problem was. "Turn 1 was a little bit average, but the rest of the lap all felt pretty tidy.

"I feel like I executed a pretty good session. You know, built up to it a little bit at the start, and found my feet, but I think it's just been incredibly tight this weekend.

"Max and Red Bull looked quick this weekend. I mean, to be honest, a lot of teams looked quick. It's not been quite as comfortable for us. So yeah, the results not a big surprise. But yeah, obviously, we'd love to be a little bit further up."

The nine-time grand prix winner stated he was still aiming to add to his haul of victories, but is only letting thoughts of the championship enter his mind after a qualifying session, not during it.

He holds a 34-point advantage over Norris after the Briton retired from the Dutch Grand Prix. However, Piastri was quick to point out that the title fight is far from over.

"No, when you're on the lap, you're going for it, and you're going for pole, you don't know what anyone else is going to be able to pull off. So in the moment, yes, you're going flat out. I think, you know, obviously afterwards it creeps in a little bit.

"But there's still a long way to go. And I'll try and make up some spots tomorrow, because I'd like a few more wins if I can."