Just under two months ago, if rumors are to be believed, Oscar Piastri was about to sign a contract with Williams for the 2023 season. However, that still doesn't seem to be happening and Ted Kravitz looks into why the signing isn't on paper yet. It is possible that last season's Formula 2 champion is waiting for a better team.
Just under two months ago, if rumors are to be believed, Oscar Piastri was about to sign a contract with Williams for the 2023 season. However, that still doesn't seem to be happening and Ted Kravitz looks into why the signing isn't on paper yet. It is possible that last season's Formula 2 champion is waiting for a better team.
Kravitz reveals that there are rumors in the paddock that Mark Webber, Piastri's representative, has advised his compatriot not to sign with Williams yet. He expects McLaren to be available if he doesn't stick with Ricciardo.
"Could the delay be because he and his manager Mark Webber are looking to replace Daniel Ricciardo at McLaren? As the races go by and the points and performances don't come in for Ricciardo, it might look more like McLaren will actually come in with a late bid for Oscar Piastri and leave Williams behind," said the Sky Sports journalist.
Kravitz philosophized aloud that Ricciardo could leave for McLaren's team in F-Indy. The Perth driver wants nothing to do with that. Ricciardo indicated on Wednesday that he has no intention of quitting as a McLaren F1 driver. The Australian said he is more motivated than ever to become competitive again at the Woking team.
Piastri reportedly received an offer from Williams to replace Nicholas Latifi after this season, but if McLaren came forward, it would be a better venture for the 21-year-old Australian. At McLaren, you can compete structurally for the points, while at Williams (at least in 2022) this is the exception rather than the rule.
Meanwhile, Piastri is still Alpine's test and reserve driver. The French are pushing for the talent to be on the grid in 2023, otherwise he will be free to do whatever he wants. It is unclear whether it would be a temporary or permanent move to McLaren.