Red Bull Racing has identified McLaren driver Oscar Piastri as its primary target to fill the potential vacancy left by Max Verstappen, according to a report from Autosport. The Australian is seen as the priority option should the four-time world champion decide to leave the Milton Keynes-based team.
While Red Bull's official stance maintains that Verstappen will remain with the team through the 2027 season, sources suggest his departure is now considered a likely scenario. This has prompted the team to begin contingency planning for a future without their star driver.
The team's recruitment strategy appears to favor established talent over developing their own junior drivers. Red Bull reportedly does not want to promote from within their academy system, viewing such a move as a long-term developmental project rather than an immediate competitive solution.
Piastri, who joined McLaren from Alpine's academy, has quickly established himself as one of the sport's most promising young talents. His performance since entering Formula 1 has clearly caught the attention of top teams, with Red Bull now viewing him as the ideal candidate to maintain their championship-winning momentum.
The situation places McLaren in a difficult position, as they would need to consider alternatives if Red Bull makes a formal approach for their driver. Piastri's current contract details and any potential release clauses would become central to any negotiations between the teams.
This development adds another layer of intrigue to the Formula 1 driver market, which has seen significant movement in recent seasons. The potential availability of a driver of Verstappen's caliber would undoubtedly trigger a chain reaction of moves throughout the grid.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.