Red Bull Racing considering Oscar Piastri as Max Verstappen's replacement

Verstappen's future has been the subject of speculation since 2025, as Red Bull struggled and were in turmoil with the firing of Christian Horner from his team principal role and being replaced by Laurent Mekies following performance struggles and the loss of major figures to other teams, Adrian Newey being the most senior member at the time to leave for Aston Martin. Jonathan Wheatley also left for Audi.

Fast forward to 2026, and the situation is not better, as Red Bull's RB22 is hardly a contender, while Verstappen is growing more frustrated, especially due to the nature of the new regulations, which he labeled as "anti-racing and Formula E on steroids."

The Dutchman admitted he is considering his future plans, hinting that he may not only leave Red Bull but Formula 1 as a whole as he is now ramping up his other racing activities in endurance GT racing as he now gears up for the 24H race at the Nürburgring later in May.

The fact that Verstappen's long-time race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, will be leaving for McLaren in 2028 will also serve as a catalyst in the four-time F1 Champion's decision to leave his team or the sport despite many downplaying his statements.

Red Bull have been looking at their future post-Verstappen, exploring options that are interestingly outside their own drivers' pool, which currently includes Isack Hadjar, Liam Lawson, and rookie Arvid Lindblad. Yuki Tsunoda remains a reserve as well.

Aside from Lindblad, who has shown early promise but remains an unknown entity, all other drivers in the Red Bull pool are hardly suitable to fill Verstappen's role.

Hence, several reports now claim Piastri is the Verstappen successor Red Bull Racing are targeting. The Australian has proven to be a contender and race winner with McLaren. His contract with the Woking squad reportedly ends at the same time as Verstappen's with Red Bull.