In a sensational twist that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world, Ferrari has officially signed Oscar Piastri in a clandestine $110 million deal, sealed just hours after the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas. The move, kept under wraps with unprecedented secrecy, marks a seismic shift in the F1 power dynamic — and could ignite one of the fiercest intra-team battles in modern history.
According to exclusive sources, the signing took place at a private ranch outside Austin, Texas, with only ten insiders present — including Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur, Piastri, and his manager Mark Webber, who is said to have orchestrated the entire operation. Attendees reportedly signed strict NDAs to prevent leaks, and the meeting’s timing — while the champagne was still flowing on the podium — underscores Ferrari’s urgency to secure its future star.
The deal, spanning four seasons and valued at $110 million, cements Ferrari’s intent to rebuild around fresh, analytical driving talent. Insiders describe the signing as “the most expensive coup since Fernando Alonso’s 2010 arrival,” a move born from growing frustration within Maranello’s leadership over recent strategic blunders and underperformance.
🔥 The Fallout: McLaren in Panic Mode
McLaren is said to be in full damage control. After months of internal tension between Piastri and the team — fueled by accusations of favoritism toward Lando Norris and repeated strategy missteps — the young Australian’s patience reportedly snapped at the Singapore Grand Prix. Sources claim that McLaren’s refusal to approve a critical setup change cost him a potential top-five finish, triggering the activation of a performance clause that opened the door for Ferrari.
Now, McLaren’s legal department is exploring every possible avenue to block Piastri’s transfer, though insiders suggest the contract’s fine print gives Ferrari the upper hand. “This wasn’t just a signing — it was a chess move,” one source told Motorsport Italia. “Webber played it perfectly.”
⚙️ Turmoil Inside Ferrari
The ripple effect inside Ferrari has been immediate — and dramatic. Charles Leclerc is said to be “deeply hurt” after discovering the news via leaked messages instead of directly from Vasseur. His trust in the team’s leadership has been shaken, and rumors are already swirling about possible talks with Mercedes or Red Bull for 2026.
Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz’s camp is fuming. With Piastri’s arrival looming, Sainz’s position appears increasingly precarious despite his recent strong performances. One insider described Ferrari’s internal mood as “civil war in slow motion,” with tensions simmering just beneath the surface.
🧠 Why Ferrari Chose Piastri
Ferrari’s gamble is not without strategy. With sweeping new technical regulations set for 2026, the Scuderia needs a driver capable of delivering both raw pace and detailed feedback — qualities that Piastri has been praised for since his debut. His calm demeanor and precision have impressed engineers, who see him as a potential cornerstone in Ferrari’s return to championship form.
🏁 What Happens Next
The official announcement is expected to drop during the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, where Ferrari plans to unveil the deal in a dramatic showcase fitting for F1’s newest superstar pairing. However, with Leclerc’s trust eroded, Sainz’s camp enraged, and McLaren readying legal action, the “Oscar Era” may begin under a cloud of controversy.
As one insider summed it up:
“Ferrari didn’t just sign a driver — they signed a revolution. But revolutions are never peaceful.”
With Mark Webber now established as one of the most formidable power brokers in the paddock, the stage is set for a new chapter in F1 history — one that could redefine not only Ferrari’s future, but the entire grid’s hierarchy.
Las Vegas awaits — and so does the world, eager to see whether Oscar Piastri will become the prancing horse’s prodigy or its next great controversy.
