6 January 2026PlanetF1Press release
McLaren CEO Zak Brown admits to ‘destabilising’ rivals in F1’s political paddock
McLaren boss Zak Brown told talkSPORT the team purposely tries to destabilise Red Bull and other rivals as part of F1’s off‑track politics, hoping a mental‑war edge will lift McLaren up the standings.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown told talkSPORT that the team deliberately tries to ‘destabilise’ rivals – chiefly Red Bull – as part of Formula 1’s highly political off‑track game. He said the tactic is meant to lift McLaren up the hierarchy, not just to improve the car. Brown summed it up: “The competition off the field is as great as it is on the field.”
Why it matters:
- Red Bull’s five‑year Constructors’ streak makes any psychological edge valuable for McLaren.
- A confrontational narrative can draw sponsor interest looking for bold, outspoken brands.
- Public feuds may boost internal motivation but risk alienating other teams.
The details:
- Brown admitted McLaren “tries to destabilise other teams” by sparking debate on driver treatment and strategy.
- He called the mental games “poison biscuits,” a phrase used by team principal Andrea Stella.
- The rivalry with former Red Bull boss Christian Horner, though cooled, remains a deliberate political lever.
What’s next:
- Expect more outspoken comments from Brown ahead of the next Grand Prix as the campaign continues.
- If McLaren turns political pressure into on‑track gains, other midfield teams may copy the approach.