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‘I’m Part of Biological History’: Ancient Wasp Named After Oscar Piastri (Yes, Really)
Researchers said the fossil was preserved in Burmese amber and formally identified as Gwesped Piastrii in Palaeoworld.
A newly discovered wasp species, Gwesped Piastrii, has been named after McLaren Formula One driver Oscar Piastri, honoring his racing achievements and the iconic McLaren orange color of the amber specimen found in Myanmar.
Discovered in northern Myanmar and dating from the middle Cretaceous period, the insect was formally identified in the June issue of academic journal Palaeoworld; the Cretaceous ended 65 million years ago.
The 25-year-old Australian made his Formula One debut in 2023 and has won nine grands prix, finishing third in last season's championship behind teammate Lando Norris and four-time champion Max Verstappen.
Piastri is currently attending the Isle of Man TT races, where tragedy struck on Thursday after British rider Daniel Ingham died following a crash during a qualifying session for this year's races.
Following the fatal collision at Doran's Bend, organisers confirmed they suspended all sidecar racing for the remainder of the event, citing safety concerns after multiple serious incidents during qualifying sessions.