According to Motorsport, Red Bull Racing has identified McLaren driver Oscar Piastri as its top choice to replace Max Verstappen should the four-time world champion depart the team. This is according to well-placed sources in the Miami paddock.
Verstappen has an existing contract for 2026, and there have been repeated assurances from Red Bull that the Dutchman remains fully committed to the team he recently celebrated 10 years with.
Despite that, senior figures within the organisation, including team principal Laurent Mekies and Red Bull executive Oliver Mintzlaff, are reportedly prepared to fast-track the "Piastri plan" if Verstappen were to trigger an exit, regardless of whether that's by switching teams, taking a sabbatical, or stepping away from Formula 1 entirely.
Verstappen's dominance has defined the team's recent success, but speculation about his future has intensified in recent months. While the champion has often expressed satisfaction with the team that propelled him to four consecutive titles, persistent rumours involving potential moves to Mercedes or even an early retirement from the sport have seemingly forced Red Bull's hand.
Piastri has emerged as one of Formula 1's brightest talents, despite a challenging 2025 that saw him go from Championship favourite to third place behind Lando Norris and Verstappen. Still, the 24-year-old Australian has showcased exceptional race craft, qualifying pace, and consistency since graduating from the Alpine academy.
His performances in 2024 and 2025 have drawn comparisons to a young Verstappen, blending raw speed with remarkable maturity under pressure. The site's sources indicate Piastri’s blend of talent, work ethic, and relatively drama-free approach aligns perfectly with Red Bull's ambitions to maintain its status as a top contender.
"I'm already very happy with where we are," Verstappen said of where things stand with Red Bull in Miami last weekend. "From here, there's light at the end of the tunnel, that we can just push on and try to close the gap further."
"I never felt comfortable with the layout of the car," he continued. "And I think over those last few weeks the team has been pushing flat out to try and bring upgrades to the car and making me feel more comfortable with a lot of things in the car, and it really pays off. I feel more in control of the car again and then I can push a bit more, then the upgrades are working."
If Verstappen triggers his exit clause from Red Bull, then the team will shift focus to Piastri. Will we see a driver swap, or is a move to Mercedes still most likely for the Dutchman? That remains to be seen.