New F1 buzz: ancient wasp species named after Piastri
The motor-racing world is abuzz for another reason on Friday with three biologists naming an ancient wasp species named after 25-year-old Oscar Piastri.
With nine grand prix victories to his name, Formula One drivers are well aware of the sting McLaren ace Oscar Piastri possesses.
But now it seems he has impressed more than just his F1 rivals and fans, with the motor-racing world abuzz for a different reason.
Three biologists, obviously followers of Piastri, have named a newly discovered species of wasp dating from the time of the dinosaurs and found preserved in Burmese amber after the Australian.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.A research article in the June issue of academic journal Palaeoworld named the insect, found in northern Myanmar and dating from the middle Cretaceous period, as ‘Gwesped Piastrii’.
“The specific epithet honours Mr Oscar Piastri for his achievements in Formula One, and because the colour of the amber piece recalled to the first author the iconic McLaren orange,” the article explained.
Piastri is currently attending the Isle of Man TT races with a weekend off before the Monaco Grand Prix on June 7.
The Cretaceous period ended 65 million years ago.
The 25-year-old from Melbourne finished third in last season’s championship, losing out to teammate Llando Norris.
He finished just 13 points behind Norris, with four-times champion Max Verstappen second.
with Reuters
Originally published on AAP
