Oscar Piastri has revealed that he is willing to help team-mate Lando Norris become Formula 1 champion under certain circumstances at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Starting from third, Piastri must finish in the top two to have any realistic chance of becoming champion at the Yas Marina Circuit.
But given his 16-point deficit to leader Norris and six points to second-placed Verstappen, the Australian is reliant on issues or incidents for the other two title protagonists.
If Norris finishes on the podium, he wins the title; if not, McLaren hinted Piastri might let his rival pass.
Piastri initially poured cold water on this suggestion after qualifying, confirming the delicate topic had yet to be raised with him.
“We’ll still discuss it,” he said to Sky F1. “I’ve not had any direct discussions about that yet.”
Acting for the sake of the team?
Piastri doubled down on his position, but hinted that he may reconsider depending on finishing positions at the chequered flag.
“But until either Max or Lando cross the line ahead of me then I’m still in the running, so we’ll see what that looks like tomorrow,” he added.
Revealing that he could move aside if circumstances demand, he admitted discussions will take place to ensure no ill feeling in the team in 2026.
“Definitely, yeah,” he admitted. “It’s obviously not the easiest decision for anybody but, again, we’ll discuss it before the race.”
Like Norris, the Australian has not formed a strategy for tackling the first corner from third.
“I’m not really sure yet, I haven’t thought that far ahead,” he confirmed.
“But obviously to try and win the championship I need more than just simply win the race. We’ll see what entails.”
His grid spot gives Piastri the perfect view of his two rivals, including the potential to see an incident, a factor not lost on the Australian.
“It could do! We’ll see how it gets played,” he concluded.
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