McLaren extends Piastri contract until the end of 2026

McLaren has announced that is has extended the contract of Oscar Piastri until the end the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Piastri is currently enjoying his maiden campaign in F1, having joined McLaren in late 2022 on a multi-year deal.

The 22-year-old has displayed an impressive level of performance with team papaya, enjoying his best qualifying at the British Grand Prix earlier this summer where he lined up third on the grid before also claiming his best result year-to-date with a fourth-place finish at Silverstone.

Piastri's new deal will see McLaren entrust its cars to the Aussie and Lando Norris until at least the end of 2025.

"It’s fantastic to confirm that Oscar has signed a multi-year extension with the team," commented McLaren team boss Andrea Stella.

"Oscar is an asset to McLaren and constantly impresses with his performance, work ethic and attitude, so it was an easy decision for the team to make.

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"He has already proved pivotal to the team, so it’s brilliant to have his vote of confidence as we push to win championships again in the future.

"I look forward to seeing him develop with us as we continue this journey together."

Piastri declared himself "thrilled" to be rewarded with a new deal that he hopes will carry him to the front of the field in the future.

"I am thrilled to be extending my partnership with McLaren for many years," said the young gun.

"I want to be fighting it out at the front of the grid with this team and I am excited by the vision and foundations that are already being laid to get us there.

"The welcome that I have received and the relationships that I have built make this feel like home already.

"The team’s consistent commitment in me has made me feel incredibly valued and the desire from the team for me to be part of its long-term future made this an easy decision.

"To be wanted like that and for the team to show so much belief in me after just half a season, means a lot.

"Ever since the Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test last year, I feel a real part of all things papaya and my thanks go to everyone in and around the team, as well as all the fans.

"Stability is a huge advantage in this early part of my career and to have that with a brand as prestigious as McLaren gives me the opportunity to continue the work that we’ve started.

"We’ve enjoyed some good moments together in my rookie season, but I’m excited to work together with everyone at MTC over the coming years to create some great moments."

McLaren CEO Zak Brown added: "I’m delighted to be continuing our partnership with Oscar through to the end of 2026.

"He’s an incredible talent and an asset to the team so it’s fantastic to be committing to each other in the long term.

"Oscar is already proving what he can do out on track and has been instrumental in the turnaround we’ve had so far this season.

"He’s fit into the team brilliantly and is really valued by the whole McLaren Racing family. I’m excited to see how he continues to grow both on and off track."

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