Oscar Piastri came to the defense of Zak Brown, McLaren CEO, on the eve of the Australian GP, highlighting that his relationship with the executive remains strong, despite the controversies surrounding the team’s strategic decisions during the 2025 Formula 1 season. Last year was marked by difficult moments for Piastri, with the loss of the drivers’ title to Lando Norris after controversial team strategy choices, especially at the Monza and Qatar GPs.
Read more F1: Start procedure change will be implemented at the Australian GP
The situation caused divisions in Australia, with even a politician from the country questioning the way McLaren handled the 24-year-old driver. However, Piastri made a point of clarifying his position, stating that his relationship with Brown was never shaken: “My relationship with Zak is very good, and I think it has been getting stronger as we have gotten to know each other better,” he said.
Piastri also commented on the work dynamics within McLaren, highlighting that Brown and Andrea Stella, team principal, have different leadership styles, but together they form an effective combination: “They have different styles, but they work well together, and in the end, our relationship was strengthened over time, even with the difficult moments we had last year, as any team goes through,” the Australian driver stated.
Read more F1: Norris is ironic about his biggest title rivals in 2026
With the start of the 2026 season this coming weekend in Melbourne, Piastri also appeared optimistic about his challenges. Despite the changes in regulations and the difficulties McLaren may face with the new power unit, the driver believes he can continue his progress: “I don’t know yet, but with what I’ve learned in previous years, I think I can take another step forward this year,” he concluded, highlighting that adapting to the changes will be one of the season’s biggest challenges.
Although McLaren is not seen as one of the strongest teams at the start of the new season, Piastri remains confident in his skills and the work he has been doing with his team.
Read more F1: Hadjar points out challenges in Red Bull’s one-lap pace
