McLaren detail key reasons behind Oscar Piastri extension

McLaren has stated its choice to extend Oscar Piastri at the team was a “no-brainer” decision.

The Woking-based squad announced the contract extension on the eve of the season-opening F1 weekend from Melbourne, Piastri's home race.

Piastri joined McLaren in 2023 as a rookie and is entering his third F1 campaign this year.

The Australian became a grand prix winner last season as he triumphed in Hungary and Azerbaijan en route to McLaren's constructors' championship success.

McLaren has detailed Piastri's “cultural fit” within the team left it eager to retain him for the long-term.

“It’s fantastic to confirm Oscar’s extension with McLaren,” said McLaren CEO Zak Brown.

“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.”

Piastri signing a 'symbol of trust' at McLaren

Piastri's new deal comes one year after team-mate Lando Norris secured his own long-term contract extension at McLaren.

After lifting a trophy with the duo last year, McLaren has set its sights on achieving further titles with its secured driver line-up going forward.

“Further extending our partnership with Oscar is a symbol of our belief and trust in him as a driver, as well as a reflection of our shared ambition to continue in our fight for championships together,” commented McLaren team principal Andrea Stella.

“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.”