McLaren has announced Oscar Piastri will remain with the team, signing a “multi-year” contract extension.
Co-Author: Chiara Martin
Arriving at McLaren in 2023 to replace the underperforming Daniel Ricciardo, the Australian made an immediate impact.
He exceeded expectations in his rookie year, finishing ninth after a series of strong performances.
He became one of only two drivers to beat Max Verstappen that season, winning the Qatar Sprint Race.
In 2024, he consistently matched the pace of team-mate Lando Norris. Challenging for victories when the MCL38 began to show real turns of speed.
His best performance came in Baku, where he held off the charging Ferrari of Charles Leclerc to take victory.
Combined with his win in Hungary, Piastri played a pivotal role in securing McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship since 1998.
McLaren’s “long-term vision” with Oscar Piastri
In a statement released by McLaren, Piastri said, “It’s a great feeling knowing that I’m part of McLaren’s long-term vision.”
“The team had the belief in me when we signed in 2022, and the journey we’ve gone on over the past two seasons to help return McLaren to the very top of the sport has been incredible.”
“There are so many talented and special people working at MTC who have helped me to become a Formula 1 race winner very early in my career. Therefore, I’m very proud to be continuing to represent this legendary team for many years to come.”
“I’m excited to fight for the big prizes as a McLaren driver and after last year’s fantastic achievements, it has made me even hungrier to stay at the sharp end.”
Zak Brown
“It’s fantastic to confirm Oscar’s extension with McLaren. Not only is he an incredibly talented driver, but his work ethic and cultural fit within the team made it a no-brainer to extend his timein papaya.
“We’ve got the best driver line-up on the grid, and in the past two seasons, we’ve seen how much of an asset to the team Oscar is both on and off track. He was absolutely fundamental in adding to our legacy with the 2024 Constructors’ Championship last season, so we’re all excited to see what we can do in the years to come as we continue to fight for World Championships together.”
Andrea Stella
“Further extending our partnership with Oscar is a symbol of our belief and trust in him as adriver, as well as a reflection of our shared ambition to continue in our fight for Championships together.
“It has been a pleasure working with Oscar throughout the past two seasons and he has continued to prove how impressive he is in terms of his talent, determination and work ethic as a driver and his contribution to our team and culture as a person.
“Alongside Lando, we have what we need locked in for the long term to keep pushing forward.
“I look forward to continuing to watch Oscar grow and develop as a driver and know that many successes lie ahead for him.”
Feature Image Credit: McLaren Racing