Oscar Piastri addresses dispelled Max Verstappen to McLaren jeopardy

Oscar Piastri insists he was "never really worried" by Max Verstappen's talks with McLaren, maintaining that, much like George Russell at Mercedes, he did not feel at threat from the Dutchman.

The four-time F1 drivers' champion has re-upped with Red Bull until the end of 2030, ending years of speculation that he might seek pastures new within the paddock.

First Mercedes and later McLaren became the most likely destination for the 28-year-old, if he did decide to find a new home in F1.

With that risk now eradicated, both Piastri and Russell — who were the drivers expected to make way in the respective hypothetical scenarios — have been adamant that they were not concerned about their seats.

"I was never really worried about it," the former told media, including RacingNews365. "From where I'm sat, it's not really anything to do with me."

Having refused to be drawn in on the matter, the Australian was pressed on whether he could see himself at McLaren for another 10 to 15 years, with Verstappen set to reach a decade-and-a-half with Red Bull, in what will at that point be the longest single-team tenure in F1 history.

Whilst Piastri was careful not to commit to such a timeline, he was keen to stress how influential McLaren has been on his F1 career and how happy he is with the Woking-based squad.

"Fifteen? I'm not sure. That's a long time," the nine-time grand prix winner replied with a smile. "But no, I think we've had a good first three years together, or three and a half years.

"Obviously, we've had some challenges at various points, but when you look at my career and the position I've been able to be in, to win two constructors' championships, fight for a drivers' championship, and win races or sprints in the first three years of my career, McLaren's given me incredible opportunities already.

"So, I'm very happy with where I am, and ultimately, they've done a lot for me. We've got a great relationship, and ultimately, you want to be in the best place you can for success, and at the moment, I feel like McLaren is definitely the best place for that."