Oscar Piastri was one the verge of completing his loan-style switch to Williams when he backed out in favour of a move to McLaren, it has been revealed.
The Australian's future was the story of the summer after things turned sour between him and Alpine. The Enstone-based outfit had supported his journey through the feeder series, including the F2 championship which he won last season.
When Fernando Alonso surprised Alpine by choosing to leave and join Aston Martin next season, they announced soon after that Piastri would be promoted to take his place. But the driver refused and, after a lengthy legal battle, it was confirmed that he will drive for McLaren in 2023.
