McLaren Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri will have a grandstand named after him at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, set to take place at Albert Park. This new grandstand will be located on the main straight, directly opposite the pitlane, providing fans with a prime viewing spot alongside the race action. The announcement emphasizes Piastri’s rising prominence in Formula 1 and his growing fanbase in Australia.
A Tradition of Australian Racing Legends Honored at Albert Park
Piastri joins a prestigious list of Australian drivers who have grandstands named for them at the Melbourne circuit, including Jack Brabham, Mark Webber, Daniel Ricciardo, Alan Jones, and Arthur Waite. This tradition connects current stars with the country’s rich motorsport heritage, mirroring how Piastri’s McLaren teammate Lando Norris has a grandstand at his home race in Silverstone.
Oscar Piastri Expresses Enthusiasm and Gratitude
Piastri shared his excitement about having a grandstand in his name for the first time at his home Grand Prix.
“I’m very excited by the news that I’ll have my own grandstand at next year’s Australian Grand Prix,”
he said.
“It feels very surreal, and I never thought this would happen but the support is incredible and I can’t wait to see it all come together next March.”
“Seeing all the fans in my own grandstand directly opposite the McLaren garage is going to be an amazing experience and I’m really looking forward to feeling the energy and the atmosphere.”
“Thanks to everyone who has made this happen and thanks in advance to everyone who wants to be part of it. The Australian fans always turn out to support me and this is just an extra reason why I can’t wait to race in Melbourne in 2026.”
Mark Webber Highlights the Significance of the Honor
Mark Webber, Piastri’s manager and former Red Bull driver, praised the recognition as a milestone in Piastri’s early career.
Webber commented that the grandstand reflects Piastri’s remarkable performances so far, noting his confidence at the highest level and his representation of Australia:
“It’s magnificent news for the event and for Oscar. It’s a reflection of his results so far, incredibly early in his career, that he’s managed to have the amount of podiums and victories that he’s had. Clearly he is very comfortable at the elite level, and making his presence felt which is brilliant, and representing Australia in the way that the country likes to be represented.”
He added,
“I think it will all sink in when the event is under way and the people in the grandstand can be opposite Oscar’s pitbox. It will be an added bonus for the fans and Oscar alike.”
Current Championship Standings and Ticket Information
Piastri is currently leading the F1 drivers‘ standings, holding a nine-point advantage over his McLaren teammate Lando Norris. With ten races remaining this season, the battle for the championship is expected to remain intense through to the final Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi. This upcoming home grandstand appearance will offer fans direct access to witness one of the sport’s most promising talents.
Tickets for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, featuring Piastri’s new grandstand, will become available to the general public starting September 10. This opportunity allows fans to secure their place early for what promises to be an electrifying race weekend in Melbourne.
