Source: REUTERS/Mark Peterson
[Saba Sports News] Recently, McLaren F1 Team announced a contract extension with Oscar Piastri until 2028, with an option for further extension. Some fans believe this decision has completely thwarted Red Bull Racing’s poaching plans. Piastri has performed excellently in the past few seasons of F1, becoming a hot prospect, prompting McLaren to act quickly to ensure his long-term stay. According to records, Piastri joined McLaren in 2023 and won the Hungarian Grand Prix and the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in just 46 races. His stable performance helped McLaren win its first Constructors’ Championship in 25 years in 2024. McLaren clearly does not want this 23-year-old Australian star to be poached by competitors, especially given Red Bull’s keen interest in him. According to F1 journalist Lawrence Barretto, Red Bull considered signing Piastri after the 2024 season. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner even openly stated in Netflix’s documentary “Drive to Survive” Season 7 that Piastri is the driver he most wants to sign. Additionally, Red Bull senior advisor Dr. Helmut Marko has frequently mentioned Piastri’s potential in interviews.