Helmut Marko Reveals Piastri’s Manager Pursuing Red Bull Move

Helmut Marko has revealed that Oscar Piastri’s manager, Mark Webber has been actively seeking discussions with Red Bull about a potential move for the Australian driver. Piastri, who has been performing impressively alongside Lando Norris at McLaren, currently sits fourth in the World Drivers’ Championship and has the chance to break into the top three by season’s end.

Despite having a contract with McLaren until 2026, Piastri may be tempted to join Red Bull and partner with Max Verstappen if Sergio Perez loses his seat. Helmut Marko commented on Webber’s intentions, stating, “Let’s put it this way: Mark Webber is intensively seeking conversation,” as reported by F1-Insider. Ralf Schumacher also weighed in, suggesting that Piastri should be Red Bull’s priority should Perez leave.

He mentioned that both Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda are other contenders for the seat but emphasized Piastri’s talent. “He is not only a super talent but also extremely hard-nosed,” Schumacher said, expressing confidence in Piastri’s future potential. However, Verstappen highlighted a significant factor that might deter Piastri from moving to Red Bull: the prospect of playing second fiddle to him.

Verstappen stated, “He’s definitely not a [number two driver], and if I were him, I would never accept it.” He acknowledged the challenges Piastri faces as a relatively new driver in Formula 1 compared to his own experience but emphasized that Piastri deserves the opportunity to compete for wins, not just be a supporting driver.

Meanwhile, McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes that both Piastri and Norris can function as co-number ones, though Norris has received more priority in crucial decisions due to his title challenge.