Oscar Piastri “flattered” by Red Bull ...

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McLaren Method 1 driver Oscar Piastri says Purple Bull’s curiosity in him as a plan B if Max Verstappen leaves is “flattering”, however the Australian denies any information of it.

Earlier this month, Motorsport.com revealed Piastri is on Red Bull’s radar as a long-term substitute for Verstappen, ought to the Dutchman determine to go away the crew. The four-time world champion has been disillusioned with F1’s new rules and mentioned he had “life choices” to make after a flawed begin to the 2026 guidelines cycle.

Over the Miami Grand Prix weekend, a number of sources with information of the state of affairs confirmed {that a} push to get Piastri was on the desk within the state of affairs that the crew misplaced its four-time world champion, whether or not by switching to a different outfit, taking a sabbatical or leaving F1 altogether.

When requested concerning the matter within the Canadian Grand Prix paddock, Piastri felt Purple Bull’s curiosity was flattering however mentioned he had no information of it.

“It’s information to me, sure,” the Australian mentioned. “There’s clearly not been any discussions or something, however it’s flattering and there is not likely far more than that, actually.

“I feel, hopefully, it proves my inventory as a driver, which is a pleasant factor, however I am very proud of the place I’m. I’ve received lots of confidence on this crew that we’re going to have the ability to win races and, hopefully, championships sooner or later, so I am very completely satisfied the place I’m.

Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Max Verstappen, Purple Bull Racing

Picture by: Andrew Ferraro / LAT Pictures through Getty Pictures

Piastri is underneath contract with McLaren by way of 2027, with Verstappen contracted to the tip of 2028 – albeit with a number of break clauses in his contract relying on Purple Bull’s efficiency.

Talking on Thursday, Verstappen mentioned F1’s proposed modifications to the facility unit rules for 2027, which counsel a 60-40 cut up between combustion energy and electrical vitality, can be a step ahead for F1 and, probably, for his future within the sequence.

“It’ll make the product higher, in order that implies that I am happier and that is what I need to have the ability to proceed in Method 1,” Verstappen mentioned. “Sure or no? Effectively, it would not matter. I am completely satisfied the place I am at. I see the crew actually progressing and that is additionally very thrilling to see. And for me, I at all times needed to proceed anyway, however I at all times needed to see change.”