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Grill’d Leans Into Oscar Piastri ‘Burger Curse’ With Playful Apology Campaign

The chain previously changed its OP81 giveaway from podium finishes to race participation following weeks of online jokes.

Overview

  • Grill’d issued a tongue‑in‑cheek statement acknowledging the viral ‘burger curse’ tied to its OP81 promotion with Oscar Piastri.
  • The brand rolled out a lighthearted response that includes mock “Sorry Not Sorry” merchandise, a themed Spotify playlist, and billboards in Melbourne.
  • After reintroducing the offer in September, Grill’d shifted the trigger from when Piastri podiums to when he races as fan memes gathered pace.
  • Piastri has not finished on a grand prix podium since early September, while McLaren teammate Lando Norris now leads the standings by 24 points with three rounds left.
  • Grill’d says about 330,000 Australians have already eaten the OP81 burger and the company publicly reaffirmed its support for Piastri.