Oscar Piastri’s once-promising season has descended into turbulence, prompting a growing chorus within the Formula 1 sphere to question his future at McLaren. After spending much of the year commanding the championship fight, the young Australian has been overwhelmed by a brutal collapse in form, one that has ignited speculation about internal favouritism and fractured team harmony. His previously steady relationship with McLaren now appears strained to breaking point as whispers inside the paddock grow louder.
Observers note that the turning point coincided with teammate Lando Norris’ sudden surge of dominance. While Piastri faltered through mechanical misfortune, strategic miscues, and costly errors, Norris swept to commanding victories in Mexico and Brazil, overturning a considerable points deficit and seizing control of the title narrative. For many fans, McLaren’s behaviour has sparked suspicion—claims that the British team has subtly placed its weight behind its British driver, leaving Piastri increasingly isolated.
Former Haas boss Guenther Steiner has not minced words, openly advising Piastri to sever ties with McLaren despite his long-term contract. Steiner argues that the 24-year-old possesses the adaptability and talent required to flourish elsewhere, insisting that a drastic change of environment may be essential if he hopes to recover his confidence. His commentary underscores a belief shared by a growing contingent: Piastri’s psychological resilience is being tested, and remaining within a seemingly imbalanced structure may hinder his trajectory.
This collapse has been dramatic. From holding a commanding lead after the Dutch Grand Prix—with Max Verstappen languishing more than 100 points adrift—Piastri has spiralled through six races marked by DNFs, sprint crashes, and only a single podium finish. The deficit has shrunk perilously; Verstappen has carved the gap to just 25 points heading into Las Vegas, a venue forecast to expose McLaren’s weaknesses. Should the decline persist, Piastri risks plummeting to third in the championship, a fall that would have been unthinkable only weeks earlier.
As the championship tightens, pressure mirrors a vice around Piastri’s campaign. Steiner warns that if the Australian cannot mentally reset over the winter, the damage may become irreparable. Yet he maintains faith in Piastri’s underlying quality and hints that a rejuvenation—either with McLaren or elsewhere—remains possible. With the Las Vegas Grand Prix looming, the Australian’s season hangs by a thread, and the motorsport world watches to see whether he will rediscover his composure or continue his painful slide from contention.
About the Author
