Explosive claim: McLaren deliberately holding Oscar Piastri back in 2025 F1 title fight – Australian media. Shocking reports from the F1 paddock claim McLaren is favoring Lando Norris.

F1 | Backstory: McLaren allegedly “sabotaging” Piastri, shocking paddock testimonies

Shocking revelations from “The Australian” suggest that, according to key figures in the paddock, McLaren may be “sabotaging” Oscar Piastri. The report claims the Woking team is favoring Lando Norris while hindering the Australian’s championship fight. Julian Linden of “The Australian” cites anonymous paddock sources, including journalists and team members, reporting that McLaren has even prohibited Piastri from giving exclusive interviews to media in his home country.

The battle for the Formula 1 title intensifies at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In the season finale, Lando Norris, leader of the Drivers’ Championship, must defend his position against Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri. On paper, Verstappen is the closest and most dangerous rival, just 12 points behind, while Oscar Piastri, 16 points adrift, must hope for favorable circumstances.

Woking continues to emphasize that the treatment of its two Papaya drivers is as equal as possible – as seen in the strategic decisions at the Qatar GP – yet some in the paddock are not convinced about Piastri’s treatment. Australian media, in particular, are pointing the finger at Andrea Stella and Zak Brown, accusing them of actual sabotage.

Testimonies to “The Australian”: Piastri fighting with “one hand tied behind his back”

The tension is palpable, this much is clear. However, “The Australian” goes further, citing several striking testimonies from inside the paddock. One British journalist reportedly told the outlet that “the treatment Piastri has received is the worst I have ever seen toward a top driver.” Another insider believes Oscar Piastri is being openly “hindered” by his own team.

The final source cited by Linden explained that “Piastri is fighting with one hand tied behind his back,” constantly “penalized by the team.” These are certainly serious accusations, yet they are not corroborated by any statements or actions from those involved. The topic is expected to resurface in the coming days, adding more drama to the thrilling final weekend of a nail-biting championship.

Whether the accusations prove to be founded or simply the product of heightened emotions in a three-way championship fight, one thing is certain: the once-harmonious McLaren garage heads into the Abu Dhabi showdown under the darkest cloud imaginable.