Piastri Eyes Smooth Sailing for McLaren in 2026

As the 2026 Formula 1 season draws near, rising star Oscar Piastri has made it clear that he and his McLaren team are committed to ensuring a level playing field for both him and his fellow driver, Lando Norris. Speaking at the prestigious Autosport Awards, Piastri reaffirmed the squad's dedication to its equal driver policy, while also suggesting that further refinements may be necessary to avoid any potential pitfalls.

Reflecting on the team's approach, the young Australian driver emphasized the importance of maintaining a harmonious atmosphere within the garage, one that allows both Piastri and Norris to compete on equal terms. "We've got a finetuned system in place, but we want to make sure we're not causing any unnecessary headaches for ourselves down the line," Piastri explained, underscoring the team's desire to proactively address any issues that could arise.

McLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, echoed Piastri's sentiments, stating that the squad will continue to monitor the situation closely and make any adjustments required to ensure the drivers' relationship remains on solid footing. "Our equal driver policy is a cornerstone of our team's philosophy, and we're committed to upholding that," Stella said. "But we also recognize the need to be adaptable and make tweaks where necessary to avoid any potential pitfalls."

As the 2026 campaign approaches, fans and pundits alike will be keen to see how Piastri and Norris navigate the challenges of their continued partnership. With both drivers eager to showcase their talents and contribute to McLaren's success, the team's ability to maintain a harmonious and competitive environment will be crucial to their collective ambitions.