Oscar Piastri’s build up to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has taken an unexpected and controversial turn after reports emerged that McLaren has blocked him from giving interviews to Australian media outlets. The decision has caused widespread debate across the Formula One world and has raised questions about the team’s internal dynamics at a time when both Piastri and teammate Lando Norris remain in the hunt for the world championship.
According to multiple reports, McLaren instructed that Piastri should not participate in any individual sessions with Australian journalists during the season finale weekend. The move has been described by several commentators as a harsh and unnecessary restriction, particularly given Piastri’s rising profile and his position as one of the strongest performers of the 2025 season. Critics argue that the ban limits Piastri’s ability to represent himself and suggest that it risks undermining his connection with his home audience.
Some insiders have voiced concerns that the decision reflects broader issues within the team. Throughout the season, debate has grown over whether McLaren offers its two drivers equal treatment. The interview blackout has intensified those concerns, with many interpreting it as a sign that Piastri may not be receiving the same level of support as Norris during one of the most crucial weekends of the season.
The timing of the issue has only deepened the controversy. With the championship standings extremely tight, Piastri remains within reach of the title. The Australian sits only a handful of points behind the leading drivers heading into Abu Dhabi, and any internal pressure or distraction could influence the outcome. Analysts note that a decision affecting media access in such a decisive week has the potential to shape not only the narrative but also the mindset of a driver preparing for one of the most important races of his career.
McLaren has not issued a detailed explanation for the restriction, although the team has publicly maintained that both Norris and Piastri will be free to race without preference in the finale. Team principal Andrea Stella has repeatedly stated that the team does not intend to prioritise one driver over the other despite external speculation and the competitive tension surrounding the title fight.
While McLaren insists the ban is part of its internal communication strategy, the reaction from fans and media suggests that the decision may have backfired. Supporters argue that limiting Piastri’s media presence sends the wrong message and risks fuelling accusations of bias. Many believe that a championship contender deserves full visibility, especially when racing under the pressure of a season decider.
As the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix approaches, the focus will now shift to whether the off-track tension will have any bearing on Piastri’s performance. The young driver has maintained calm throughout the season and has repeatedly proven his ability to rise under pressure. The coming weekend will determine not only whether he can capture the world championship, but also how McLaren’s approach to driver management will be judged once the dust settles.
The ban has become one of the most discussed stories of the week, casting a shadow over McLaren’s preparations for the final round. Whether it will affect the outcome on track remains to be seen, but it has already highlighted the delicate balance teams must strike between managing media commitments and supporting their drivers during the most intense moments of the season.
