McLaren denies Oscar Piastri exit rumors, dismisses Verstappen swap

McLaren and Oscar Piastri’s manager Mark Webber have publicly refuted speculation that the Australian driver will leave the team or be part of a driver swap with four‑time world champion Max Verstappen. Webber said, “Oscar has a contract with McLaren for the foreseeable future; talk of pressure to leave is nonsense.” McLaren CEO Zak Brown added that the rumors are unfounded and expressed satisfaction with the current driver lineup of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Piastri himself confirmed he has a valid contract and is happy with the team. The speculation arose from reports of Verstappen’s dissatisfaction with Red Bull’s performance and a contractual clause that could allow him to depart, leading some media to link him to McLaren. Both Webber and McLaren reiterated that Piastri’s contract extends for at least two more seasons, with intentions to extend further, and there are no ongoing negotiations.