McLaren are preparing for the possibility that arch-rivals Red Bull will attempt to lure Oscar Piastri away next year, despite the 25-year-old Australian driver being under a long-term contract. However, Piastri himself has dismissed the speculation, stating that no talks have taken place with Red Bull.
Piastri denies Red Bull discussions
Speaking in Montreal ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, Piastri said: “There’s obviously not been any discussions or anything (with Red Bull), but it’s flattering, and there’s not really much more than that. Hopefully, it proves my stock as a driver, which is a nice thing.” He reaffirmed his commitment to McLaren, adding: “I’ve got a lot of confidence in this team that we are going to be able to win races and hopefully championships in the future, so I’m very happy where I am.”
Red Bull’s Verstappen situation
Red Bull are at risk of losing Max Verstappen, with the four-time Formula 1 champion expressing dissatisfaction with the sport’s direction. However, his exit talk has softened following agreed regulation changes for 2027. McLaren believe Piastri would be the top candidate to replace Verstappen if he leaves, according to Autosport.
Zak Brown on driver interest
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown commented on the interest in Piastri: “I would imagine there’s not a team on the grid that wouldn’t want to have Oscar and Lando (Norris) driving for them. My general view, contracts aside, (is) our job is to create an environment where our drivers don’t want to drive anywhere else, or for that matter, our employees or our sponsors don’t want to sponsor another team. I think there’s a lot of talent inside McLaren that other racing teams would like to have.”
Piastri’s F1 success
Since debuting in F1 with McLaren in 2023, Piastri has won nine grands prix and become a key contributor to the team’s success. His performances have made him a sought-after driver, but he remains focused on his future with McLaren.
Verstappen’s changing tone
The likelihood of Red Bull needing a Verstappen replacement diminished when the Dutch driver spoke positively in Montreal. Weeks after casting doubt on his F1 career, the 28-year-old said agreed changes to reduce reliance on electrical power “will for sure improve the product.” He stopped short of guaranteeing his presence on the grid next year but was notably more optimistic. “I always wanted to continue anyway, but I always wanted to see change. And I think the change that’s coming now is definitely very, very positive — or at least, almost back to normal,” Verstappen said.
Regulation changes
Formula One, the FIA, and engine manufacturers have agreed in principle to move to a 60-40 split in favour of the internal combustion engine by increasing fuel flow and reducing electrical power by the same amount. However, the change brings significant engineering challenges, impacting engine design and fuel-tank size, and has yet to be formally ratified. Verstappen added: “We have to wait and see — if it’s fully confirmed, that definitely needs to happen.” He also praised constructive talks with Formula One and the FIA earlier this year, saying: “It’s just great that they’re open-minded and they listen to the drivers, because I think we speak in the interest of the sport and we just want to make it a better product.”
