Zak Brown: Drive To Survive 'Changed' Christian Horner

McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes that Netflix's "Drive to Survive" has significantly altered Christian Horner's personality, suggesting that the fame, money, and glory became "a bit much." Brown, who claims to have known Horner for over 30 years, acknowledges Horner's on-track achievements but criticizes his alleged shift in character and past disruptive tactics.

Why it matters:

The dynamic between team principals often spills over into the competitive F1 paddock, influencing narratives and team strategies. Brown's direct comments highlight a perceived shift in one of F1's most prominent figures, offering insight into the personal rivalries that underpin the sport's high-stakes environment. This also touches on the broader impact of F1's growing global popularity, particularly through media like Drive to Survive, on its key personalities.

The details:

• Zak Brown stated in an interview with The Telegraph that Christian Horner has "changed" due to the "Drive to Survive fame, the money, the glory." He acknowledged Horner's "amazing" sporting results.
• Brown accused Horner of making false allegations against McLaren during last year's Brazilian GP, claiming Horner suggested McLaren injected water into their tires to gain an unfair advantage. Brown called these allegations disruptive and technically unfounded.
• Ego vs. Arrogance: Brown distinguished between the two, stating he possesses a "huge ego" driven by pride in his brand and team performance, which he views as positive. He described arrogance as "terrible" and a source of mistakes.
• Horner's Current Status: Since his departure from Red Bull last July, Horner has maintained a low profile, with no public statements regarding his future. Rumors had previously linked both Brown and Horner to a potential Alpine acquisition.

Between the lines:

Brown's remarks underscore the intense personal rivalries that define F1. While he praises Horner's sporting achievements, his criticism of Horner's perceived change in character and past conduct suggests a deeper professional tension. The reference to "Drive to Survive" highlights how media exposure can impact public figures, potentially altering their demeanor and interactions within the sport. This also reflects the pressure cooker environment of F1, where every advantage, real or perceived, is scrutinized.

What's next:

It remains to be seen if Christian Horner will publicly respond to Brown's comments or how this public friction might affect future interactions between McLaren and Red Bull. With Horner reportedly considering his next steps for 2026, any potential return to F1 could reignite these rivalries, adding another layer of intrigue to the sport's ever-evolving landscape.