Oscar Piastri’s Don Award announcement cut through the usual ceremony polish and landed as a national statement. While accepting Australia’s highest sports honour while preparing for the Las Vegas Grand Prix he shared how this is a massive priviledge. The honour followed an explosive 2025 season: seven Grand Prix victories across China, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Miami, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands, 14 podium finishes, five poles and 366 Championship points.Those numbers vaulted him to second in the drivers’ standings, 24 points behind Lando Norris with three races to run, and confirmed McLaren’s elite form. Selection Committee Chair Bruce McAvaney OAM described Piastri’s rise as compelling and outstanding. Motorsport Australia showed his professionalism and humility. Piastri’s public gratitude to fans who “wave the flag and cheer” made the moment larger than a trophy. It became a national pulse check, signalling that Australia has a driver who commands attention on the world stage and carries the nation’s hopes toward a potential place in history alongside Jack Brabham and Alan Jones.
Oscar Piastri shares why receiving The Don Award felt like a major moment
Oscar Piastri wasted no time in expressing his gratitude and awe upon receiving The Don Award, named after cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman. Speaking directly to the audience at the gala, Piastri said, “Winning an award in the name of Sir Donald Bradman is a massive privilege.”.He elaborated on the weight of the recognition, adding, “Everyone in Australia knows exactly what he represented and the legacy he has in Australian sport, so it’s not lost on me how major this award is.” These words were shared during his virtual acceptance, as Piastri was unable to attend in person due to preparations for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.Piastri also reflected on the joy of national representation, telling the crowd, “It’s always an amazing feeling to represent our country on the world stage and do well for ourselves.” He extended thanks to his supporters worldwide, stating, “Thank you to everyone that waves the flag and cheers me on at all the Grand Prix races around the world.”In a closing note to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, he affirmed his commitment, saying, “To be a recipient of The Don Award is a great honour, and I look forward to representing our country for many years to come.” These statements were captured and released by the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in their official announcement following the event.Also Read: Dillon Danis goes head-to-head with Abubakar Nurmagomedov sparking a wild brawl at UFC 322
