Zak Brown claims McLaren have ‘best driver line-up’ in F1 after Oscar Piastri deal
The 23-year-old was already under contract until 2026 but has now shored up his position at the constructors’ championship-winning squad
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Oscar Piastri has signed a multi-year deal with McLaren on the eve of the opening race of the new Formula 1 season, as the Australian seeks a first championship title at last year’s constructors’-winning team.
He finished fourth last year, winning in Hungary before claiming a second victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and is one of the favourites for this season.
Piastri was already under contract until 2026 and has now secured his future with the British team until at least 2028.
With McLaren expected to carry over their constructors’-winning form into the new season, Piastri is set to battle with teammate Lando Norris - last year’s runner-up - for the world title. The pair will be teammates for at least the next three seasons, with Norris’ contract running out in 2027, and have largely worked well together - although there were moments of friction last season.
“It’s a great feeling knowing that I’m part of McLaren’s long-term vision,” Piastri said.
“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 McLaren 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.”
McLaren CEO Zak Brown continued: “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 time in 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.”
The new F1 season starts with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on Sunday.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
0Comments