McLaren CEO Zak Brown has provided insight into the team’s swift acquisition of Oscar Piastri in 2022, a move that led to a significant contractual dispute with Alpine. The situation culminated in a ruling by the FIA’s Contract Recognition Board (CRB) in McLaren’s favour.
The controversy arose when Alpine announced Piastri as a race driver for the 2023 season, despite Piastri publicly denying any such agreement. McLaren subsequently announced Piastri as their driver, setting the stage for the CRB hearing.
The CRB, a tribunal of four independent lawyers, convened on August 29, 2022, and delivered a unanimous decision on September 2, 2022. The ruling confirmed that the only valid contract was between McLaren and Piastri, dated July 4, 2022.
This decision entitled Piastri to drive for McLaren for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The CRB found that Alpine’s contract with Piastri did not contain a clear commitment for him to race for them in Formula 1 in 2023.
Brown stated that McLaren had been monitoring Piastri’s situation and acted quickly once it became clear he was available. He expressed confidence in Piastri’s talent, viewing him as a future champion.
McLaren had conducted due diligence regarding the contractual landscape before proceeding with their offer. The team’s proactive approach secured a driver they believed possessed significant potential.
Alpine, having invested in Piastri’s junior career, expressed disappointment and frustration with the outcome. Team principal Otmar Szafnauer and then-CEO Laurent Rossi highlighted the resources committed to his development.
The CRB ruling also revealed that Alpine was ordered to pay legal costs to McLaren and Piastri, amounting to approximately £530,467. This included fees for arbitrators and covering McLaren’s and Piastri’s legal expenses.
Piastri initially signed a multi-year deal with McLaren for his 2023 debut. His strong performances led to a contract extension in September 2023, securing his position with the team until at least the end of the 2026 season.
During his rookie season in 2023, Piastri achieved a podium finish at the Japanese Grand Prix and won the Qatar Sprint race. He continued to demonstrate strong form in 2024 and 2025, securing further victories and podiums.
Piastri is currently competing for McLaren in the 2026 Formula 1 season. His performance has justified McLaren’s decision to pursue him despite the contractual complexities of 2022.
