Zak Brown hints McLaren will maintain driver equality policy for 2026 F1 season

McLaren CEO Zak Brown has strongly indicated that the team will continue its policy of strict driver equality between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The approach, which helped secure both championships in 2025, will remain a core philosophy despite external criticism.

Why it matters:

McLaren's commitment to equal treatment, even with both drivers in title contention, represents a significant departure from the traditional 'number one driver' strategies employed by many top teams. This philosophy not only secured their first championship double since 1998 but also sets a precedent for team management in modern F1, prioritizing team harmony and fair competition over strategic favoritism.

The details:

• Brown made the comments during the FIA's prize-giving gala, stating that allowing both drivers to fight for the championship was "exactly what we plan to do next year."
• The policy was tested throughout the 2025 season, particularly in Qatar where strategic indecision during a safety car period potentially cost the team a better result, drawing criticism from pundits.
• Team Principal Andrea Stella echoed the sentiment, praising both drivers for how they "conducted themselves, allowing McLaren to go racing" with "equality and fairness."
• The approach ultimately proved successful, with Norris clinching the drivers' title in Abu Dhabi by a narrow two-point margin over Max Verstappen, while the team had secured the constructors' championship earlier in the season.

The big picture:

McLaren's stance reinforces a growing belief within the team that their current driver lineup is one of the strongest on the grid. By refusing to designate a lead driver, they maximize motivation and performance from both Norris, the newly crowned world champion, and Piastri, who has consistently shown race-winning pace. This stability and mutual respect could be a key asset as the team prepares for the major regulation changes coming in 2026, aiming to defend their hard-won titles against rivals who may take a more hierarchical approach.