McLaren Admits It's Not the Fastest Among F1's 'Big Four' Rivals

McLaren CEO Zak Brown has acknowledged that while his team is part of Formula 1's leading group, it does not consider itself the fastest as the sport enters a new era of regulations. With significant changes to both aerodynamics and power units this year, Brown stated that Red Bull and Mercedes appear particularly strong, setting the stage for a season where development will be crucial.

Why it matters:

In a season defined by major technical overhauls, a top team's candid assessment of its own position is a rare and valuable data point. McLaren's admission tempers expectations following its double-championship success last year and highlights the intense, unpredictable competition at the very front of the grid. It underscores that early testing times can be deceptive and that the true pecking order will be forged through relentless in-season development.

The details:

• Brown confirmed McLaren has produced a "good car" and will be in the "big four," but clarified, "I don't think we're at the front of the big four."
• He pointed to Red Bull and Mercedes as the early benchmarks, noting, "The red guys and the silver guys are looking very strong."
• The CEO suggested Red Bull may still be hiding performance, stating, "I don't think we've seen everything yet at Red Bull."
• With the new regulations still fresh, Brown emphasized that "a lot of development" will define the long season, indicating that the initial hierarchy is far from fixed.

What's next:

The opening race will provide the first true competitive snapshot, but the championship will likely be decided in the factories. McLaren's focus will be on unlocking the untapped potential in its new car faster than its rivals can improve theirs. Brown's comments frame the 2026 season not as a defense of titles, but as a new development race where starting in the top four is just the beginning of the fight.