Just like the cars in F1, it takes less than a second to shift a perspective around a certain driver, team, entity, or scenario. So the scenario changed when the entire sport’s perspective changed toward Oscar Piastri and McLaren. The Woking outfit went from struggling to lead in the midfield to fighting the front runners. The surprisingly well-fitted upgrades were a blessing for the McLaren men and especially for the rookie Australian. In fact, Piastri’s performances ever since the 2023 British GP have made him everyone’s favorite, including Zak Brown, ahead of Lando Norris.

Brown fought tooth and nail for Piastri’s signature for 2023 and it is turning out to be worth the effort. In fact, the boss was so impressed with the rookie that he could not help but communicate his high praise for Piastri completely snubbing his old favorite Lando Norris.

How did Zak Brown snub Lando Norris while highlighting Oscar Piastri’s potential and unique qualities

Speaking to Speedcafe, expressed how Piastri does not behave, drives, and feels like the team’s rookie driver. He is in awe of his racing and maturity. In fact, according to Brown, “So he studies, learns, and puts it together when he needs to,” are the three unique qualities that will make him a future world champion.

“He’s extremely quick, he’s very mature, very technical, very calm, all the things you’d like to see out of a rookie, but you don’t necessarily always see out of a rookie,” said Brown. “I think people forget he also sat out last year. He didn’t have much rust on him when it comes to race-craft, but I think he’s definitely showing me signs of being a potential future world champion.”

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The McLaren CEO isn’t the only one with this opinion of Piastri, especially after the 2023 British GP. The Australian has truly announced himself to the world of F1. In fact, many believe he will replace Norris as well and should in some conversations.

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Former boss picks Piastri over Norris in a recent debate

Oscar Piastri has showcased his potential to the world which is exactly why Zak Brown and Co. were quick on their feet to give the rookie a contract extension even before completing his first year with the team. This was a particularly forward-tinking and smart move by McLaren as the snatch-and-grab season will begin soon. In fact, McLaren is still under threat with Norris’s contract expiring in 2025 and Red Bull looking to poach the Brit.

However, according to former team owner Eddie Jordan, the Austrian team should set their sights on Piastri instead of Norris to secure their long-term future. Jordan expressed his opinion and revealed his inside source to point out why Piastri is a better option to drive alongside Max Verstappen instead of Norris.

Jordan revealed, “Way back in the late 80s with Johnny Herbert and he was managed by Mark Webber’s wife. I’ve had that relationship and understood and I thought she was probably the best and most professional manager of any sports person that I’ve come across. So she tipped me off and said ‘Listen I have to tell you this guy is the real deal.’ I think he is the real deal.”

“Full marks to McLaren, they signed him till 2026 because they needed to, because he will be a sought-after driver. If I was in Red Bull and I was thinking of replacing Checo, he’d be the one I’d have in my mind,” he confessed.

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McLaren has not only changed everyone’s perspective toward them but also brought a lot of attention. Will the papaya team exude enough confidence to retain their current, extremely strong, lineup for years to come?