Oscar Piastri reviews rocky 2026 F1 season and recalls 2022 Alpine contract mix‑up

McLaren driver Oscar Piastri said his 2026 Formula 1 campaign has been a series of highs and lows. After fighting for the 2025 title until the final race, he has struggled with reliability issues and on‑track errors, managing only occasional podiums in Japan and Miami and a win at the Hungarian Grand Prix that was later taken by teammate Lando Norris. Piastri highlighted better performances in Austria and described Barcelona as one of the toughest weekends, saying the varied results have offered valuable learning opportunities.

Separately, Piastri posted on X to thank fans for “anniversary messages” marking the four‑year anniversary of a 2022 Alpine contract controversy. Alpine had announced he would join the team for 2023 without his consent, prompting Piastri to publicly deny any signed agreement. He later signed with McLaren for 2023, a contract that now runs through at least 2028.