Overview
- Multiple outlets report that, following Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix weekend, Red Bull has identified McLaren’s Oscar Piastri as its preferred option if Max Verstappen leaves.
- The Motorsport-sourced reports say team boss Laurent Mekies and Red Bull executive Oliver Mintzlaff are closely tracking Verstappen’s position and mapping scenarios.
- Verstappen has criticized the 2026 car changes, likening F1 to Formula E “on steroids,” and has hinted that he could retire if he dislikes the direction.
- McLaren has not commented on Piastri’s future, and the Australian is signed through 2027, though F1 contracts are often renegotiated when drivers seek moves.
- The contingency planning follows leadership departures and a slower start to 2026 for Red Bull, with reports also noting its junior talent is not yet seen as a Verstappen-level replacement.