McLaren sign Oscar Piastre after controversy in the Alps

McLaren officially announced on Friday morning the appointment of Oscar Piastre, who will replace Daniel Ricciardo in the upcoming Formula 1 season, after much controversy.

Oscar, the 2021 Formula 2 champion, will team up with Lando Norris at the UK carmaker.

The case of Bistri

Alpine chief Otmar Szafnauer, upon learning of Fernando Alonso’s departure for Aston Martin in 2023, decided to upgrade the Piastre – then-reserve driver at Alpine – even though his manager, Mark Webber, did not turn back his attempts to contact.

Piastre was in the team simulator in Enniston, England, and Szafnauer came to deliver the news in person. The pilot smiled and thanked him, but when the news became official he spread the message that he would not be racing for the team.

He signed with McLaren, with coach Andreas Seidl apparently unaware that Daniel Ricciardo was on his way out and would be replaced by the young Australian. Ricardo was reportedly told in Hungary that he would be released from the last year of his contract.

Pastrie ended up with a contract with McLaren and Alpine. Both agreements were reviewed by the Contract Recognition Board, which gave McLaren a positive opinion.

“Alpine thanks the Contract Recognition Board for meeting on Monday and acknowledges the decision it has made,” reads a statement from Alpine.