Oscar Piastri confident McLaren can repeat mid-season turnaround in 2026

Oscar Piastri is banking on McLaren's proven ability to turn seasons around, insisting the defending champions can claw their way back into contention despite a sobering start to 2026. The Australian remains "under no illusions" about the MCL40's current shortcomings but points to the team's recent track record as reason for optimism.

Why it matters:

McLaren sits well adrift in the constructors' standings, trailing Mercedes by 159 points and Ferrari by 87, a dramatic fall from its dominant 2025 form. With the papaya car struggling to match early-season pace, the pressure is mounting on Woking to deliver another trademark mid-season surge.

The details:

• Piastri highlighted the team's 2023 revival as the blueprint, when McLaren leaped from midfield anonymity to podium regulars. "We were in a much worse position than where we are now," he noted, underscoring the team's capacity for rapid improvement.
• The Hungarian Grand Prix provided a flash of promise, as a comprehensive upgrade package carried Lando Norris to victory. Piastri retired but saw the result as proof the development path is sound.
• Despite their fierce 2025 title showdown, Piastri said his dynamic with Norris hasn't changed. "It's still strong, productive conversations with the team all pushing for the same goal," he explained.
• Acknowledging the car is lacking performance, Piastri confirmed the team has "good ideas" to chase and that everyone is "hungry to get back to where we have been."

The big picture:

McLaren has made a habit of aggressive in-season development. The leaps in 2023 and 2024 laid the foundation for last year's championship success, and the team is clearly hoping history repeats. While Mercedes and Ferrari currently hold the upper hand, writing off McLaren has proven unwise.

What's next:

The post-summer break races will reveal whether Hungary was a genuine turning point or a fleeting high. For Piastri and Norris, the mission is clear: close the gap to the frontrunners and keep their title hopes alive before the math becomes insurmountable.