Montoya Claims Piastri in Talks with Other F1 Teams for 2026

Former McLaren driver Juan Pablo Montoya has publicly claimed that Oscar Piastri and his manager, Mark Webber, are already in discussions with another Formula 1 team for the 2026 season. Montoya suggests dissatisfaction with Piastri's development at McLaren is a key driver behind the alleged talks, raising immediate questions about the Australian driver's long-term future with the Woking-based squad.

Why it matters:

Piastri is one of the most coveted young talents on the grid, and any potential move would significantly alter the driver market landscape. After a 2025 season where he led the championship early but ultimately lost the title to teammate Lando Norris, speculation about his contentment and career trajectory is intensifying. A departure would be a major blow to McLaren's long-term plans and could trigger a domino effect among top teams.

The details:

• Montoya's Guarantee: The three-time Grand Prix winner stated unequivocally to a gambling platform, "I guarantee you that Oscar Piastri and Mark Webber are already talking to another F1 team."
• Managerial Discontent: Montoya pinpointed Webber's reported unhappiness as a catalyst, saying, "I don't think Mark Webber was satisfied with Oscar's development at McLaren. Mark isn't very happy with McLaren."
• A Tale of Two Halves: Piastri's 2025 season was starkly divided. He won seven of the first races, establishing a commanding championship lead, but then failed to win any of the final nine Grands Prix, allowing Norris to snatch the title.
• A Word of Caution: Montoya also warned that Piastri must ensure Webber's own past frustrations from his F1 career do not unduly influence the young driver's decisions.

Looking ahead:

While these are currently just claims from a single source, they add fuel to the persistent speculation surrounding Piastri's future. His current contract with McLaren is believed to run through the end of 2026. If he were to seek an early exit or a move for 2027, several top teams—including a potential vacancy at Red Bull Racing alongside Max Verstappen—could become plausible destinations. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this is mere paddock rumor or the start of a major driver market shift.