Oscar Piastri's 2025 Formula 1 season concluded with a near miss, as he finished third in the driver standings, behind teammate Lando Norris and veteran Max Verstappen. Despite leading the championship for a significant portion of the year, a mid-season slump allowed Norris to seize the advantage and ultimately claim the title. While Piastri fell short of his ultimate goal, his performance this season has solidified his position as a future contender for the F1 crown, potentially as soon as 2026.
Piastri's 2025 campaign was marked by impressive consistency and flashes of brilliance. He secured seven race wins, matching Norris's tally, and consistently challenged for podium finishes. However, a series of setbacks, including crashes in Baku and Melbourne, and a lack of podium finishes in six races, allowed his rivals to close the gap. Despite these challenges, Piastri demonstrated resilience and a willingness to learn, bouncing back with strong performances towards the end of the season, including a Sprint win in Qatar.
Throughout the season, there were whispers of preferential treatment towards Norris within McLaren, fueled by strategic decisions during races such as the Italian Grand Prix, where Piastri was asked to let his teammate through. These concerns even reached the Australian parliament. However, McLaren CEO Zak Brown has consistently denied any bias, emphasizing the team's commitment to providing equal opportunities for both drivers. Piastri himself has acknowledged the intense competition within the team but has expressed confidence in the fairness of the environment.
Looking ahead to 2026, Piastri is poised to mount another strong challenge for the championship. He possesses exceptional talent, a strong work ethic, and the benefit of racing for a top team in McLaren. The new regulations coming in 2026, including changes to the engine and chassis, could shake up the established order and present new opportunities for drivers and teams. Piastri's adaptability and ability to quickly learn new systems, demonstrated throughout his junior career, will serve him well in this new era.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has expressed unwavering confidence in Piastri's future, stating, "Oscar is going to be a world champion, I'm convinced he's going to be a world champion in a McLaren". Brown also highlighted the unique dynamic within the team, with two drivers capable of winning the World Championship and pushing each other to new heights. Norris himself has acknowledged Piastri's impact on his own performance, stating that he has "learned a lot from him".
Despite the disappointment of missing out on the 2025 title, Oscar Piastri has emerged as a genuine star in Formula 1. His talent, combined with his determination and the backing of a strong team, make him a force to be reckoned with. While rumors circulated about a potential move to Red Bull in 2027, Piastri has affirmed his commitment to McLaren, extending his contract to at least the end of 2026. As the sport enters a new era in 2026, expect Piastri to be at the forefront, battling for victories and ultimately, the World Championship.
