Rookie Oscar Piastri has rejected rumours linking him with a future move to Red Bull, with the McLaren driver insisting that he’s “very happy” at the British team.
Ex-Formula 1 team owner Eddie Jordan recently suggested that the Australian could be a candidate for Sergio Perez’s seat, when the Mexican does eventually leave Red Bull.
This has led to further speculation linking the young star to the Milton Keynes-based team; however, he’s quashed the rumours and ended any speculation of him making a potential move.
“It’s flattering to have those comments. I’m very happy where I am,” Piastri told media including RacingNews365.com.
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“It’s always nice to be talked about in those kinds of ways, I think my season’s been quite good for the most part, I think there’s definitely been some mistakes or moments I wish I could have had again, but with hindsight, it’s very easy to say those kinds of things.
“I’m happy with where I’m at driving-wise, there’s still a lot to improve, a lot to learn.
“I’ve got a very strong teammate (Lando Norris) to learn from who just by being a benchmark is a big help for me getting back up to speed.
“I’m happy where I am.”
Piastri’s rookie season so far has been exceptional, with him having claimed his first podium (sort of) last weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix.
The 22-year-old finished second at Spa-Francorchamps last Saturday in the sprint race, after being overtaken by Max Verstappen.
Piastri had briefly led the sprint race following a great strategy by McLaren, but Verstappen was simply too quick.
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The young driver also finished fourth at the British Grand Prix and fifth at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with his market price certainly increasing very quickly.
Despite Lando Norris being a very strong partner at the Woking-based team, it hasn’t taken Piastri long to get on a similar level to him, highlighting his raw speed.
Norris is being pushed more by Piastri than he ever was by Carlos Sainz or Daniel Ricciardo, with the pair likely going to become a formidable duo should McLaren get their car into a window where they can win races.