Oscar Piastri on McLaren’s 2026 strategy: “We will review the papaya rules”. Oscar Piastri explains McLaren’s approach to the ‘papaya rules’ .

Oscar Piastri has clarified McLaren’s strategy ahead of the new Formula 1 season, raising questions about whether the so-called “papaya rules” will continue in 2026. The Australian driver downplayed the controversy surrounding the rules, emphasizing that the concept behind them was correct, particularly considering the media attention throughout the 2025 season during the fight for the World Championship. So what will change in 2026?

After finishing third in the championship last season, despite leading the standings for the majority of races, Piastri returned to discuss internal McLaren dynamics following his teammate Lando Norris securing the world title. In an interview with TODAY, the Australian reflected on the application of the “papaya rules” in 2025, which in some circumstances appeared to artificially influence race outcomes based on team decisions.

Piastri stated: “It’s talked about a lot. I think behind the scenes it’s a much smaller discussion and problem than it’s painted to be externally. But we have our ways of going racing and they are constantly evolving. We will do a review, and in fact we have already started it: do we want to do things exactly the same way? Do we want to change something?”

He continued: “So yes, we will have everything clearly defined before returning to racing. As far as I’m concerned, the intentions have always been the right ones and, if necessary, we will make some adjustments to make life a bit easier.”

Piastri on 2025: “I learned a lot, I feel more mature”

The Australian driver also reflected on the personal impact of a season that took a disappointing turn in the final races, seeing the championship slip from his grasp, but which now serves as a foundation for approaching 2026 with renewed focus. “There are many ways to interpret the 2025 season. But for me, it was a year where I learned a lot about myself, both on and off the track,” he said.

“I feel that I have grown a lot as a person. I feel more mature, more responsible. I know a bit better what I want now. And there is also a sense of pride. Even though the final result wasn’t exactly what I wanted, achieving the level of success I did is something I could only have dreamed of at the start of the year.”