McLaren Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri will have his own grandstand at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, marking a significant milestone in his career. The grandstand, named in his honor, will be located on the main straight directly opposite the pitlane at Albert Park, Melbourne.
Joining Legendary Australian Drivers with Named Grandstands
This tribute places Piastri alongside several prominent Australian racers, including Jack Brabham, Mark Webber, Daniel Ricciardo, Alan Jones, and Arthur Waite, who all have grandstands named for them at the iconic Albert Park circuit. His team-mate Lando Norris also has a grandstand at his home race in Silverstone, emphasizing the tradition of celebrating drivers at their national Grands Prix.
Piastri Expresses Excitement About the New Grandstand
Oscar Piastri shared his enthusiasm about the announcement, saying,
“I’m very excited by the news that I’ll have my own grandstand at next year’s Australian Grand Prix,”
and added,
“It feels very surreal, and I never thought this would happen but the support is incredible and I can’t wait to see it all come together next March.”
He also highlighted the unique experience of having fans so close, stating,
“Seeing all the fans in my own grandstand directly opposite the McLaren garage is going to be an amazing experience and I’m really looking forward to feeling the energy and the atmosphere.”
Expressing gratitude, he said,
“Thanks to everyone who has made this happen and thanks in advance to everyone who wants to be part of it. The Australian fans always turn out to support me and this is just an extra reason why I can’t wait to race in Melbourne in 2026.”
Mark Webber Celebrates the Honor as a Reflection of Piastri’s Performance
Mark Webber, a former Red Bull driver and Piastri’s manager, called the grandstand naming “magnificent news” for both the event and the driver. He remarked on Piastri’s rapid rise, saying it reflects his strong results early in his career, including multiple podiums and wins.
Webber noted the significance of the fan experience, adding,
“I think it will all sink in when the event is under way and the people in the grandstand can be opposite Oscar’s pitbox. It will be an added bonus for the fans and Oscar alike.”
Current Standings and Upcoming Ticket Sales
Oscar Piastri currently leads the Formula 1 drivers’ championship, holding a nine-point advantage over his McLaren team-mate Lando Norris. With 10 races left in the season, the battle for the title is expected to remain intense until the final round in Abu Dhabi.
Fans interested in securing spots in Piastri’s grandstand can purchase tickets when they go on general sale beginning September 10, providing an opportunity to witness Australian racing history firsthand at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix.