Oscar Piastri and Mark Webber have terminated their management agreement, announced jointly on Monday following the Brazilian Grand Prix. The split, though earlier than season-end timing, had been anticipated. During pre-season testing in Bahrain, Piastri indicated a desire for a different management structure, stating Webber "won't be trackside as much anymore." The 2025 season proved intense, complicated by McLaren's 'papaya rules' designed for fair treatment of both drivers.
Webber, drawing on his Red Bull experience, sought to prevent Piastri from being labeled a number two driver. Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner noted Webber's tendency to motivate through adversity, a mindset that clashed with McLaren's current engineering-led approach under Andrea Stella. While McLaren never formally requested Piastri change management, the driver formed his own view of his needs.
The decision had been made earlier this year for Webber to step back to a behind-the-scenes role. The split came about by mutual agreement following reduced trackside involvement. Piastri, 25, now looks to navigate his F1 career without his long-time manager's direct influence.
Source: Autosport F1 News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing