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The McLaren Formula 1 team has announced that they have extended Oscar Piastri’s contract until 2026.
Oscar Piastri has found a home in Formula 1 as he stays with McLaren until the end of 2026. Image Credit: Formula1.comAfter a stellar rookie season, it has been announced that Oscar Piastri will be staying with the team until 2026. Having originally signed a multi-year contract with McLaren, Piastri has had a huge contract extension meaning he will be with the team for at least three more seasons.
What Oscar had to say
Piastri announced the extension on his social media and spoke about his relationship with McLaren in the press release.
“I am thrilled to be extending my partnership with McLaren for many years. I want to be fighting it out at the front of the grid with this team and I am excited by the vision and foundations that are already being laid to get us there.”
“The welcome that I have received and the relationships that I have built make this feel like home already. The team’s consistent commitment in me has made me feel incredibly valued. The desire from the team for me to be part of its long-term future made this an easy decision. To be wanted like that and for the team to show so much belief in me after just half a season, means a lot.”
“I feel a real part of all things papaya and my thanks go to everyone in and around the team, as well as all the fans”
Zak Brown and Andrea Stella’s thoughts
Despite coming into the sport with drama involving Alpine, Piastri has found a home with McLaren.
Andrea Stella spoke about Piastri’s first handful of races with the team and how he had already impressed the team at McLaren.
“It’s fantastic to confirm that Oscar has signed a multi-year extension with the team. Oscar is an asset to McLaren and constantly impresses with his performance, work ethic and attitude, so it was an easy decision for the team to make.”
Piastri has pulled off a number of points finishes, which is impressive enough for a rookie. However, the young Australian made a statement when he came second in the Sprint Race at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Stella clearly sees Piastri’s potential as he speaks about pushing for championships with him.
“He has already proved pivotal to the team, so it’s brilliant to have his vote of confidence as we push to win championships again in the future. I look forward to seeing him develop with us as we continue this journey together.”
Zak Brown has said that he was “delighted” that McLaren has resigned with Oscar.
“I’m delighted to be continuing our partnership with Oscar through to the end of 2026. He’s an incredible talent and an asset to the team so it’s fantastic to be committing to each other in the long term. Oscar is already proving what he can do out on track. He has been instrumental in the turnaround we’ve had so far this season.”
“I’m excited to see how he continues to grow both on and off track.”
Feature Image Credit: Formula1.com
