Oscar Piastri Opens Up About the Tense Alpine Split That Defined His F1 Arrival

Oscar Piastri is finally shedding light on the dramatic summer of 2022, when he went from Alpine's frustrated reserve driver to the center of a high-stakes contract war with McLaren. The Australian driver revealed the internal tension that led to his shocking public denial of an Alpine announcement and the subsequent FIA Contract Recognition Board (CRB) case. This turbulent period, he now admits, "wasn't so funny then," but it ultimately launched the career of a future Grand Prix winner.

Why it matters:

The saga is a defining origin story for one of F1's brightest young talents, showcasing the resilience and shrewd decision-making required to succeed at the top level. It serves as a stark reminder of the high-stakes, often ruthless, business dealings behind the glitz of F1, where driver contracts and team promises can collide. Understanding Piastri's journey from a sidelined champion to a race winner provides crucial context for his current status as a cornerstone of McLaren's revival.

The details:

• A Frustrating Wait: After winning F2 in 2021, Piastri spent 2022 as Alpine's reserve driver, a period he called a "tough time" where he learned the sport's rhythms from the garage but was desperate to race.
• The Public Denial: The drama exploded when Alpine announced Piastri would replace Fernando Alonso in 2023. He immediately countered with a now-famous social media post stating, "This is wrong and I have not signed a contract with Alpine."
• The Secret Deal: Piastri's denial was not a bluff; he had already signed a contract with McLaren, setting the stage for a legal showdown over his services.
• CRB Showdown: The dispute went to the FIA's Contract Recognition Board, which ultimately ruled in Piastri's and McLaren's favor. He reflected, "It obviously went to the CRB... that was another pretty tense moment."

Looking Ahead:

The controversy of 2022 now feels like a distant prologue to Piastri's burgeoning F1 legacy. With nine wins and 26 podiums, he has firmly silenced any doubters and become a pillar of the McLaren team. The experience, while tense, forged a driver who is not only fast but also savvy and resilient, qualities that will be crucial as he contends for future championships.