Oscar Piastri signs long-term contract with McLaren: Details here
What's the story
Australian driver Oscar Piastri has signed a long-term contract extension with McLaren.
The 23-year-old, who was already contracted until the end of 2026, will now stay with the team beyond that year.
The move comes on the heels of his stellar performance in the recent season where he bagged two Grand Prix wins and finished fourth in the Drivers' Championship.
Team achievement
Pivotal role in McLaren's recent success
Phenomenal performances from Piastri and teammate Lando Norris in the Drivers' Championship were instrumental in McLaren winning the Constructors' title last year.
It was McLaren's first Constructors' Championship victory since 1998.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, called Piastri an "incredibly talented driver" whose work ethic and cultural fit made extending his contract an easy decision.
"In the past two seasons, we've seen how much of an asset to the team Oscar is," Brown stated according to BBCSport.
Personal sentiment
Piastri expresses pride in representing McLaren
Piastri said he was proud to continue representing McLaren.
"It's a great feeling knowing that I'm part of McLaren's long-term vision," he said as per BBC Sport.
He recognized the team's faith in him when they signed him in 2022, and said their journey over the past two seasons has been incredible.
"There are so many talented and special people working at McLaren who have helped me to become a Formula One race winner early in my career," he added.
Management renewal
McLaren's management also extends contracts
Along with Piastri, several other key McLaren figures have also extended their contracts.
Team Principal Andrea Stella and CEO Zak Brown have also signed longer contracts recently.
Stella called Piastri's new contract "a symbol of our belief and trust in him as a driver."
He praised Piastri's talent, determination, work ethic, and contribution to the team's culture.