Piastri Open to Winter Talks as McLaren Reviews ‘Papaya Rules’ Ahead of 2026

Oscar Piastri has revealed he expects to sit down with McLaren’s leadership over the winter to review the team’s “Papaya rules” and assess whether any refinements are needed ahead of the 2026 season.

McLaren introduced the guidelines in 2024 to ensure equal treatment between Piastri and Lando Norris, requiring both drivers to yield position at times in the interest of fairness as they battled for race wins and, in 2025, the drivers’ world championship. While Piastri acknowledged there were moments when the rules appeared to work against him including Norris’ move at Turn 2 in Singapore that cost him third place, he remains supportive of the overall approach.

Still, the Australian expects constructive conversations about possible adjustments.

“I think it’s a testament to how we go racing,” Piastri told media. “It’s obviously not easy fighting for both the Constructors’ Championship and the Drivers’ Championship with two very evenly matched drivers, but that’s a situation we knew we were going to face.

“In the end, there are a lot of positives that come from it. Yes, there are tense and difficult moments, but Lando and I have both become better drivers by pushing each other so hard. At times that’s been uncomfortable for everyone, but overall it’s been a good thing.”

Piastri added that ongoing dialogue has been a key part of the process and will continue into the off-season.

“We’ve had a lot of discussions throughout the year, and I’m sure we’ll have more over the winter about anything we might want to do slightly differently next season,” he said. “Ultimately, the rules gave both of us the best possible chance to fight fairly for a world championship, and that’s really all you can ask for.”

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Written by

James Rees

A passionate motorsport journalist from Wales, with over 30 years of love for the sport. A dedicated father of three, working as a content manager, covering the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, Formula E, and IndyCar.

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