Oscar Piastri and Valtteri Bottas, both prominent figures in Formula 1, have amused fans with their unexpected presence at the Paris Olympics 2024. Not as spectators, but as athletes—well, sort of. Their doppelgangers have made notable appearances, creating a buzz among fans.
The first to draw attention was American curler Matt Hamilton, whose resemblance to Bottas was so striking that it went viral. Both sport similar mustaches, making it difficult to distinguish them at a glance. The only notable difference is the length of their hair.
Remember when Bottas competed in the Winter Olympics š#F1 #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/afJTTfafR4
— Motorsport.com (@Motorsport) August 2, 2024
Now, Oscar Piastri has a look-alike too. Dutch gymnast Frank Rijken bears a remarkable resemblance to the F1 driver, particularly in their side profiles. The F1 community has been entertained by these resemblances, drawing comparisons and light-hearted commentary on social media.
Zijn er al andere look-a-like F1 coureurs gespots deze #Olympics ? #Bottas #Piastri pic.twitter.com/qKPeuCUir2
— D. ā š (@huisop32) August 3, 2024
carlos sainz, oscar piastri, and valterri bottas are at the olympics now?? pic.twitter.com/PqtZelIwGT
— lor (@lercsainzz) August 2, 2024
Frank Rijken, born in Westvoorne, Netherlands, has been dubbed the "Oscar Piastri" of the Dutch Men’s Gymnastics team. He began gymnastics at the age of nine, following in the footsteps of his elder sister, Marlies. Rijken has described gymnastics as “one big playground” and added, “First, it is just playing, later it becomes sport” (source: interview with Frank Rijken).
Competing in his second Olympics after Rio 2016, Rijken represents the Prinsenvlag in Paris. Despite his efforts, the Dutch team finished 22nd in the Men’s All-Around Gymnastics event. Shinnosuke Oka of Japan won the gold, while Rijken scored 80.298 points.
Can confirm I am not competing at the Olympics
— Oscar Piastri (@OscarPiastri) August 1, 2024
While Rijken’s Olympic journey continues, Piastri is enjoying his summer break and will return to F1 in the Netherlands next month. The amusing coincidences between these athletes have provided light-hearted moments for fans, showcasing the unexpected intersections in the world of sports.
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