Oscar Piastri has rejected the notion that Max Verstappen’s uncertain future and widespread rumors linking him to Mercedes will improve McLaren’s F1 title confidence. Despite Red Bull’s challenges, McLaren continues to dominate the 2025 season after 12 rounds, holding a commanding lead in both drivers’ and constructors’ championships.
McLaren has built over a 220-point advantage ahead of Ferrari in the constructors’ standings. In the drivers’ race, Piastri leads with a 69-point gap over Verstappen, who remains the closest challenger. Although speculation about Verstappen’s next move has grabbed headlines over recent months, Piastri believes the Dutch driver remains a serious contender on most race weekends and should not be underestimated.
Piastri’s perspective on Verstappen’s role in the championship battle
Piastri dismissed any distractions related to Verstappen’s contract situation or future plans, focusing instead on his own performance. He said,
“I don’t think next year is really of concern for me.”
He added,
“It’s obviously something for him to manage, and I don’t think it will distract him necessarily.”
The McLaren driver also noted,
“And I think in the championship, I’m not really concerned with what Max is doing or how many points behind he is.”
Piastri emphasized that while Verstappen’s car pace remains uncertain, the Dutchman will likely continue to pose a threat in most races.
“I think that’s why you can’t rule him out.”
Regarding Verstappen’s championship standing, Piastri stated,
“So I’m not that bothered where he is in the championship. He is obviously a bit further back now. It’s quite a big advantage to claw back, but I’m not that concerned either way.”
Max Verstappen acknowledges Red Bull’s title challenge fading
As Red Bull struggles to keep pace with McLaren and other frontrunners, Verstappen has admitted that his prospects for the 2025 drivers’ title are likely diminishing. Speaking at the Silverstone race, he reflected on the unpredictable nature of Formula 1.
“Well, that’s F1 for you. If everyone knew what they had to do, then everyone [would be] winning races, or at least everyone had a chance of winning,”
Verstappen said.
“And in F1, unfortunately, that’s not the case. It’s a very complicated sport.”
Despite not reaching their goals, Verstappen pointed out that Red Bull is still fighting for podium finishes.
“It could be also way worse if you’re driving last,”
he acknowledged. He described their current situation as “a work in progress,” citing ongoing efforts to improve performance amid challenges from last year’s balance issues with the car.
These past problems, he explained, have hindered the car’s development this season.
“So we also had to first understand what was going on there. And for sure, that has also hurt probably a little bit, too, to the future development of the car during this year.”
Verstappen expressed a realistic view on catching up to McLaren’s level:
“Now, is that going to be McLaren level? Maybe not. Probably not.”
He concluded by reflecting on the nature of Formula 1 competition:
“That’s how F1 goes for you. Sometimes you have dominant years, good years where you can win a lot. Sometimes, maybe not. Or not at all.”
McLaren’s dominant position amid a shifting F1 landscape
After a dozen rounds in the 2025 season, McLaren’s stronghold over the championships reflects a notable shift in competitive dynamics, compounded by Red Bull’s ongoing difficulties. While rumors swirl around Verstappen and Mercedes, McLaren’s focus remains firm on performance and consistency rather than external distractions.
With Oscar Piastri leading the drivers’ standings and the team holding a substantial lead over Ferrari in the constructors’ championship, McLaren is poised to maintain its advantage. Verstappen, though trailing significantly, continues to represent the primary threat given his skill and experience.
The persistence and steady performance from McLaren highlight how uncertainties around rivals do not necessarily translate into increased confidence but rather reinforce the importance of maintaining focus. As the season continues, the battle for F1 titles will hinge on sustained execution rather than speculation.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Oscar Piastri’s family rich?
A. Oscar’s racing career benefited greatly from his father, Chris Piastri, who co-founded HP Tuners. This automotive software company is worth around $35 billion. Thanks to this company, Chris provided Oscar with about $6.5 million, helping him reach Formula 1.