Oscar Piastri to Leave McLaren? Shock Exit Rumors Rock F1 Amidst Team Order Drama

The Formula 1 off-season has just begun, but the "Silly Season" for 2026 is already at a boiling point. Explosive rumors are swirling through the paddock suggesting that Australian sensation Oscar Piastri might be planning a shock exit from McLaren. Despite a brilliant 2025 campaign where he secured 7 Grand Prix victories, internal tensions are reportedly reaching a breaking point.

The Spark: Juan Pablo Montoya’s Bold Claims

The latest wave of speculation was ignited by former F1 star Juan Pablo Montoya. During a recent motorsport briefing, Montoya claimed that Piastri’s manager, Mark Webber, has already held preliminary talks with Red Bull Racing and Mercedes. The move comes as a shock to fans, considering Piastri is currently driving the fastest car on the grid.

However, the narrative is not just about car performance; it is about status. Sources suggest that Piastri is tired of playing the "supporting role" to Lando Norris, a frustration that reportedly peaked during the 2025 Italian Grand Prix when team orders prevented a fair fight for the win.

Why Piastri Might Jump Ship

For many Indian F1 fans who have followed Piastri’s meteoric rise, the idea of him leaving McLaren seems risky. But there are three major factors driving this rumor:

• The Number 1 Status: At McLaren, Lando Norris is the "golden boy." At a team like Red Bull (if Max Verstappen moves) or Mercedes, Piastri could finally be the undisputed lead driver.
• The 2026 Engine Reset: 2026 brings massive technical changes. If Mark Webber believes Red Bull Powertrains or Mercedes High Performance Powertrains has a significant edge over the Mercedes customer engine McLaren uses, a move makes strategic sense.
• Management Strategy: Mark Webber has a history of ensuring his drivers are in the best possible seat for a championship. If the relationship with McLaren management has soured, he won't hesitate to pull the trigger on a contract clause.

Potential Landing Spots: Red Bull vs. Mercedes

If Piastri leaves, where does he go? Red Bull Racing is the most logical fit. With Sergio Perez’s future always under a cloud, a "Super Team" of Verstappen and Piastri would be the most dominant lineup in decades. Conversely, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has never hidden his admiration for Oscar’s calm, "ice-man" temperament under pressure.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for F1

An Oscar Piastri exit would be the biggest transfer saga since Lewis Hamilton moved to Ferrari. It would trigger a massive domino effect, potentially leaving a vacant seat at McLaren that every driver on the grid would fight for.

As we head into 2026, one thing is certain: Oscar Piastri is no longer just a "promising talent"—he is a power player who knows his worth.

What do you think?

Should Oscar Piastri stay loyal to McLaren, or is it time for him to lead a team of his own? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!