In a recent interview, Zak Brown explained how McLaren is handling the growing rivalry between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in order to avoid conflicts similar to those seen in the past between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.
McLaren has adopted a policy of complete transparency with its two Formula 1 drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, to ensure that their battle for the world championship title does not escalate into destructive internal tensions. The revelation came directly from Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, who for the first time in his career finds himself managing two exceptionally talented young drivers, both of whom are aiming for their very first Formula 1 world championship crown. Although the situation has so far remained under control, the risk of tension breaking out between the two drivers is always present, especially as the season heads towards its decisive phase with each Grand Prix becoming more critical.
In the interview, Brown explained that the key to maintaining balance within the team lies in absolute clarity when it comes to making decisions. This becomes especially important when technical updates or new components are not available for both cars at the same time. He stated: “It’s about transparency, about being fair, about being present. When we have updates on the car and we can only provide them to one driver for a particular race because we don’t have two ready, we explain the reason behind it.
“We don’t allow them to find out by reading or by noticing, for example, ‘Ah, he has a new front wing and I don’t.’ So we provide them with the explanations as early as possible and, most importantly, we keep track of it: ‘Next time it will go to the other driver’.”
Brown underlined that the topic is never ignored or swept under the carpet, saying clearly: “It’s not the elephant in the room.”
At present, Oscar Piastri leads the drivers’ championship standings with a margin of nine points, but Lando Norris has closed the gap thanks to three victories in the last four races. With still ten Grands Prix left to contest, Brown is fully aware that the internal management will become increasingly delicate and complex as the title fight intensifies.
He added: “They are two really good guys. We are very fortunate. We definitely have the best driver line-up: not only are they among the fastest in the world, but they are also genuinely good people, highly competitive and respectful. They have been raised well. So credit to their parents, because in the end it all goes back to that.
“We need to keep them united, make sure they are enjoying themselves, and ensure that any problems get solved quickly. I have seen in the past how drivers can clash, but I believe we have a good understanding of when there is even the slightest tension in the room. Honestly, there hasn’t been any friction between them.
“It will be harder as the season gets closer to its conclusion, because it looks like our two drivers will be fighting directly for the championship, and other rivals are still not far behind. But if everything goes according to plan, yes, it will come down to just the two of them. Normally, these situations end badly, but not here with us, and we are not afraid of it. We talk about it openly. It’s not the elephant in the room.”
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