McLaren driver Oscar Piastri has conceded there was no way of keeping Max Verstappen behind in the Belgian Grand Prix Sprint. The Australian rookie led after a pit stop scramble for a switch to Intermediates as Red Bull left the championship leader out for an extra lap. But following a Safety Car to clear Fernando Alonso's Aston Martin from the gravel at Pouhon, Verstappen made light work of the McLaren before cantering to an easy victory and the full eight points. "We tried our best," said Piastri. "When the Safety Car came in we led a few laps, I tried my best but we were no match for Max. "Nice to be up there in P2. Apart from Max the pace was really strong so full credit to the team, the last three weekends have been pretty special compared to where we have been. "So I can't thank them enough for the car. We have still got a bit of work to get right to the top. "But to lead my first laps, it's a day I won't forget."
Thought Safety Car was in my favour
"I thought the Safety Car as going to be in my favour, less laps to keep him behind," added Piastri. "I thought I had a decent restart but I looked at the top of Eau Rouge and he was basically on top of me already. "I couldn't keep him behind. Clearly, we have a bit more work to do. My first top three in a sort-of race, I will enjoy it."
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