Piastri calls Red Bull interest 'flattering' but denies any knowledge of talks

Oscar Piastri acknowledges that being on Red Bull's radar as a long-term replacement for Max Verstappen is "flattering," but the Australian driver denies any knowledge of the interest and reaffirms his commitment to McLaren.

Why it matters:

With Verstappen expressing disillusionment over F1's 2026 regulations and hinting at possible life decisions, Red Bull has reportedly identified Piastri as a contingency plan. The four-time champion's contract includes performance-based break clauses, opening the door for a major driver market shakeup.

The details:

• Earlier this month, Motorsport.com revealed that Piastri is Red Bull's top target should Verstappen leave, whether by switching teams, taking a sabbatical, or exiting F1 altogether.
• Speaking at the Canadian Grand Prix, Piastri said: "It is news to me... there's not been any discussions. It's flattering, but I'm very happy with where I am."
• Piastri's contract with McLaren runs through 2027, while Verstappen is tied to Red Bull until 2028 with break clauses tied to performance.
• Verstappen himself noted that proposed engine regulation changes for 2027 could improve the product and "definitely help me stay in F1."

What's next:

Piastri remains focused on McLaren's progress, saying he has "a lot of confidence" in the team's ability to win races and championships. Red Bull's interest may stay dormant unless Verstappen triggers an exit, but the situation keeps Piastri's name in play for one of F1's top seats.