Oct.13 (GMM) The political tension surrounding Oscar Piastri’s McLaren career is escalating, as fresh revelations and paddock whispers question both his past signing and his long-term future with the team.
In the London High Court last week, Indycar champion Alex Palou alleged that McLaren CEO Zak Brown privately admitted he had not wanted Piastri in the orange car at all. “I went for dinner with Zak at Beaverbrook near MTC,” Palou told the court.
“Zak told me it was not his decision to hire Oscar. He said it was the decision of the (former) team manager, Andreas Seidl.”
Those comments resurface as McLaren celebrates another constructors’ crown but faces growing internal strain between drivers’ title contenders Piastri and Lando Norris, whose wheel-to-wheel clash in Singapore marked a new low in their rivalry.
F1 legend Mario Andretti, speaking at Italy’s Festival dello Sport, suggested that Piastri’s uphill fight extends beyond the track. “I like Piastri for his grit, but it seems to me that at McLaren, for some reason – I don’t know why – they favour Lando Norris,” said the 1978 world champion.
Behind the scenes, Piastri’s manager Mark Webber is believed to be growing frustrated. Sky Deutschland’s Ralf Schumacher claims Webber has already begun exploring alternatives. “You can tell from his expressions that he’s not happy,” Schumacher said.
“He’s incredibly suspicious after what he went through himself. He always feels his driver should be treated as number one – and that’s now partly in Piastri’s head as well.”
Colombian great Juan Pablo Montoya agrees the relationship is under pressure. “There are rumours going around that Piastri is hysterical, that they’re already looking at options to go to Ferrari,” he told AS Colombia. “People are talking a lot, and I’m sure it’s meant to put pressure on McLaren.
“Every team has favourites – and the one who’s been there the longest is Lando.”
Montoya added that Piastri’s frustration was visible amid the team’s podium celebrations in Singapore. “He was definitely angry about what happened, and Webber has to be careful not to add fuel to the fire. You can’t just quit because things aren’t going your way.”
Schumacher even hinted that Piastri could be on several teams’ radars beyond 2026. “If Max Verstappen leaves, he could drive a Red Bull,” he said. “There were already discussions between Mark Webber and Red Bull.
“But such a driver could find a place anywhere – even Aston Martin.”
1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve, meanwhile, believes McLaren’s current tension could end up gifting the 2025 title to Verstappen. “The two McLarens are suffering too much under the pressure,” he said. “They need to wake up.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES