Speculation is mounting over whether Oscar Piastri could soon challenge Lando Norris for the top spot, potentially reshaping Lando Norris McLaren leadership by 2026. With Piastri’s recent performances and the team’s assurances of equal status, the coming seasons could see a shift in who sets the pace at McLaren.
Piastri’s Early Dominance and Setbacks in the 2025 F1 Season
Oscar Piastri began his 2025 Formula 1 campaign with extraordinary momentum, exceeding many expectations after a previous season of steady growth. At one stage in the championship, Piastri built a commanding lead of over 100 points ahead of Max Verstappen and more than 30 points ahead of Lando Norris, making him a strong title favorite. However, after the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, a series of unfortunate events and strategic changes—referred to as the ‘Papaya Rules’ switch—derailed his title hopes. His impressive run came to an end, and he ultimately finished third in the standings.
Despite this setback, McLaren leadership has publicly confirmed their commitment to offering both drivers an equal platform to succeed moving forward. However, with Lando Norris now crowned as a champion, the team dynamic has evolved, intensifying internal competition.
Piastri’s Standout Performances Before Monza
Before encountering difficulties in the latter part of the season, Piastri’s form up to Monza placed him among the top contenders for the championship. Practically error-free until that stage, Piastri consistently finished ahead of Lando Norris, demonstrating his ability to handle pressure and delivering results that justified consideration for team leadership. His decisive actions during crucial on-track battles, such as bold overtakes and strategic race moves, highlighted his adaptability and competitive mindset.
Had the 2025 season concluded after sixteen races, Piastri would likely have claimed the championship by a clear margin. This period solidified his reputation as more than just a rising talent—he was a genuine title threat with the poise and racecraft expected of a future McLaren leader.
Exceptional Wheel-to-Wheel Skills Elevate Piastri’s Potential
One of the distinguishing factors in the McLaren driver pairing is Piastri’s edge in wheel-to-wheel combat. Compared with Norris, Piastri repeatedly demonstrated an instinctive ability to seize key overtaking opportunities and disrupt even the strongest rivals’ rhythm. Notably, Max Verstappen appeared less comfortable racing Piastri than Norris in several critical duels during 2025. In closely contested moments, Piastri’s aggression and control gave him a psychological advantage over both his teammate and other championship contenders.
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah exemplified these strengths. Piastri made an outstanding start, immediately challenging Verstappen and dictating the early phase of the race. Later, he executed a decisive pass on Lewis Hamilton, expertly responding to the undercut attempt and asserting authority in a pressurized scenario. These high-stakes battles showcased what many call his “X-factor”—the vital ingredients necessary for taking command of the McLaren team.
Piastri’s Learning Curve Compared to Norris
It’s crucial to recognize that the 2025 season marked only Piastri’s third year in Formula 1. In the sport’s unforgiving environment, experience and adaptation are vital, particularly when fighting for a world championship. The final eight races of the season exposed gaps in Piastri’s consistency and ability to sustain championship-challenging intensity—but these lapses can be attributed to the learning curve every young driver faces.
As new technical regulations reset the field in 2026, Piastri’s rapid development and proven adaptability may give him an advantage. Entering his fourth season, he will have the opportunity to adapt quickly to the new cars, potentially gaining a head start on Norris and their rivals. The team, aware of his growth and resilience, might see him mature into their principal driver should he maintain his upward trajectory.
What the Future Holds for McLaren’s Leadership
The ongoing rivalry between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris has become central to McLaren’s ambitions. While Norris currently holds champion status and the associated momentum, Piastri’s 2025 campaign revealed flashes of elite competitiveness, adaptable racecraft, and an eagerness to lead. Intensive battles with Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have only sharpened his resolve.
If Piastri can iron out inconsistencies and harness his clear racing strengths, the battle for team supremacy at McLaren may only intensify. With both drivers under equal conditions and a reset coming with new regulations, Lando Norris McLaren leadership could face its most formidable test yet with Piastri aiming to rise as the new standard-bearer for the team.
