Prehistoric 'Gwesped Piastrii': A Tribute to Formula One's Rising Star

A new species of wasp, preserved in Burmese amber and dating back to the Cretaceous period, has been named after Formula One driver Oscar Piastri. The species, 'Gwesped Piastrii', honors Piastri for his achievements and is associated with the iconic McLaren team's color scheme.

A wasp species from the time of the dinosaurs has been discovered in Burmese amber, and it bears the name of McLaren Formula One driver Oscar Piastri. The insect, recently documented in Palaeoworld's June issue, was found in northern Myanmar.

Named 'Gwesped Piastrii', the wasp hails from the middle Cretaceous period. The researchers chose to honor Piastri, who made his Formula One debut in 2023, winning nine races so far.

The connection to Piastri's iconic McLaren team came through the McLaren orange reminiscent hue of the amber. As of now, Piastri has not yet commented on this unusual homage while attending the Isle of Man TT races.