Oscar Piastri confirms McLaren stay for 2027 amid Verstappen rumors

Oscar Piastri ended all speculation about his McLaren future on Friday at the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix.

**Piastri shuts the door on Verstappen joining McLaren in 2027**

The Australian driver locked in his seat for next season during a GPblog interview at Spa-Francorchamps. His confirmation came just weeks after rumors linked four-time world champion Max Verstappen to a shock move to the papaya squad.

What did Piastri say?

Piastri told reporters he’s staying put and isn’t rattled by McLaren’s talks with Verstappen’s camp. “I’m very happy here,” he said. “Zak [Brown] and Andrea [Stella] have been great-very reassuring-and I’ve been the same to them.”

He added: “I don’t know. I’m not really that bothered. I think it’s important for people to know where things sit, where the market sits.” Piastri shrugged off the speculation, insisting he trusts McLaren’s leadership and their commitment to him.

Why did the rumors start?

Verstappen’s name surfaced after the British Grand Prix in early July. Reports claimed McLaren had held exploratory talks with the Dutchman’s team. Piastri dismissed the idea as routine noise. “It was the same thing last year with him and Mercedes,” he noted. “So it’s nothing new.”

The Australian’s remarks came after GPblog learned Brown and Verstappen’s representatives had indeed spoken. Piastri, though, showed no concern over those conversations.

What does this mean for McLaren?

Piastri’s deal secures McLaren’s driver lineup for 2027. The team now has clarity on its future while fending off unwanted distractions. Brown’s public backing of Piastri-paired with his private chats with Verstappen’s camp-suggests a careful balancing act.

Stella, McLaren’s team principal, has repeatedly praised Piastri’s adaptability this season. The Australian’s maturity in high-pressure moments has kept him front and center in the team’s plans.

What’s next for Piastri?

With his future settled, Piastri turns his focus to the track. The Belgian GP weekend marks the midpoint of the 2026 season. His next outing comes at Spa on Sunday, where he’ll aim to build on his sixth-place finish in Austria last month.

For now, Piastri’s message is clear: he’s locked in at McLaren, and the team’s trust in him runs deep.