'Pretty face' Piastri makes startling mid-season move to 'new team'

The Australian driver, who is currently enjoying his best start to a season with the McLaren team, has recently stepped into the world of modelling by signing with fashion agency IMG Models.

In an announcement made on the brand’s official website, the 24-year-old — who is seeking to expand his reach into the fashion industry — joins an agency that also represents several fashion celebrities, including Bella Hadid, Alex Consani, and Vincent LaCrocq, among others.

This move by Piastri comes amid the growing crossover between Formula 1, Hollywood, fashion, and entertainment in general. The Australian also joins other sports stars, including tennis player Jack Draper, on the list of athletes represented by the agency.

Shifting focus back to on-track action, the former Alpine Academy graduate is currently locked in a championship battle with teammate Lando Norris. The pair are expected to continue their fight when the second half of the F1 season resumes with the Belgian Grand Prix.

Oscar Piastri recently reflected on his championship fight with Lando Norris. The Aussie, who saw his lead at the top further reduced following the conclusion of the British Grand Prix, acknowledged that it will be a tight battle with his teammate for the championship. Sharing his thoughts with the media including GPblog following the Silvertstone event, he stated:

“It’s a very tight battle, and I think it will be for the rest of the year. I think Canada was summed up well; I don’t think it was the best Sunday for me, definitely in terms of pace, but I think [Austria] was probably one of the better ones,” Piastri stated.

Ahead of the second half of the 2025 campaign, Piastri and Norris are separated by just eight points, with the British driver having closed what appeared to be a mammoth gap after the Canadian Grand Prix, thanks to his streak of wins in Austria and Silverstone.

The championship fight between the two McLaren teammates is sure to remain one to watch closely as the season enters its decisive phase.