Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are about to begin their third season together at McLaren, forming one of the most formidable driver pairings on the Formula 1 grid. While the team prepares to fight for the title with the MCL39, the future of its two drivers is not guaranteed. In fact, McLaren may already have a replacement within its Formula E team: Taylor Barnard.
Norris, McLaren’s star driver since 2019, has become the team’s reference point. Piastri, for his part, has shown he has all the qualities needed to become a world champion, having won Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles before making his way into F1.
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri: a winning duo, but for how long?
So far, the relationship between the two has been harmonious, making team principal Andrea Stella’s job easier. However, with the MCL39 ready to compete at the highest level, the situation could change. Both drivers want to win, and an internal rivalry could create tensions, as seen in the past with the Hamilton-Rosberg battle at Mercedes.
McLaren is in its strongest position in the last fifteen years, but the regulatory overhaul coming in 2026 could change everything. With new engines and chassis on the way, the competitive hierarchy on track could be significantly reshuffled.
If McLaren fails to consistently deliver wins and podiums, Norris and Piastri might start looking elsewhere. Both have been linked to top teams, and the British outfit must be prepared for a potential departure. Should one of them leave, the solution might already be in-house. Taylor Barnard, McLaren’s current British driver in Formula E, is making a strong impression in the paddock with outstanding performances.
Is McLaren’s future tied to Barnard?
Born in Norwich, Barnard is currently second in the Formula E standings, having secured three podiums in the first four races of the season, including a pole position. However, his career has not been an easy one. Without major sponsors backing him in junior formulas, he had to rely on the support of Oliver Rowland to rise through the motorsport ranks.
After an impressive karting career—where he was European vice-champion behind Kimi Antonelli—he struggled to shine in Formula 3 and Formula 2 due to uncompetitive cars. Despite these challenges, Barnard seized his opportunities. In 2023, he won the Monaco Sprint Race in Formula 2 before shifting his focus to Formula E with McLaren. His ability to adapt quickly has made him one of the most promising rookies in the electric series.
McLaren has always invested in young talent, and Zak Brown is undoubtedly keeping a close eye on Barnard’s progress. If he continues to impress in Formula E, he could become a worthy replacement should either Norris or Piastri leave McLaren.
With the 2026 regulation changes approaching, McLaren’s decisions will be crucial for the team’s future. If Norris and Piastri stay, the team will have a top young talent in Barnard. If one of them decides to move on, McLaren may already have the perfect successor lined up.
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