McLaren has secured Oscar Piastri for the long term, announcing a multi-year contract extension on Wednesday ahead of the 23-year-old’s home race at the Australian Grand Prix. This extension follows similar commitments for CEO Zak Brown, team principal Andrea Stella, Piastri’s teammate Lando Norris, and key senior staff.
Norris, who finished as overall runner-up last season to Red Bull’s four-time world champion Max Verstappen, signed his contract extension in January 2024.
Piastri, a race winner in Hungary and Azerbaijan last season, played a crucial role in McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship victory since 1998. The Australian made his Formula One debut with the British-based team in 2023 and was originally contracted until the end of 2026.
“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,” said Brown in a statement, referring to McLaren’s signature colors.
“We’ve got the best driver line-up on the grid, and in the past two seasons, we’ve seen just how valuable Oscar is both on and off the track. His contribution to our 2024 Constructors’ Championship win was fundamental, and we’re excited about what we can achieve together in the future.”
The first practice session for Sunday’s season opener at Albert Park is set for Friday.
Piastri, who turns 24 next month, is aiming to fight for the title this season and expressed his enthusiasm about remaining with McLaren long-term.
“The team believed in me when we first signed in 2022, and the journey over the past two seasons to bring McLaren back to the top has been incredible,” he said.
“There are so many talented and dedicated people at the factory who have helped me become a Formula One race winner early in my career. I’m incredibly proud to continue representing this legendary team for years to come.”
Piastri won a sprint race in his rookie season and finished fourth overall in 2024, becoming the only driver that year to complete every racing lap.
“With Lando alongside him, we have everything in place for the long term to keep pushing forward,” added Stella.
