Zak Brown Discusses Hurdles in Drivers' Title Chase

McLaren F1 targets both championships, with a strategic emphasis on the constructors’ title.

McLaren F1 Sets Sights Primarily on Constructors’ Title This Season, Citing Greater Accessibility

Team CEO Zak Brown Confirms Focus, Citing Challenges in Drivers’ Championship

McLaren F1 is targeting the constructors’ championship this season, primarily because the team crown is more accessible. Team CEO Zak Brown confirmed this, noting the scenarios for driver Lando Norris to win the title are quite challenging to achieve.

“Clearly, the constructors’ title is more attainable due to the number of points available over a weekend and the fact that there is always only one car leading at any given time. However, I believe Sergio is capable of turning things around at any moment,” Brown told SiriusXM.

“The challenge on the drivers’ side is that Lando could win seven races, but if Max finishes second or third—which he probably will—the points difference isn’t significant enough. I believe the gap is seven points, and he’s more than 70 points behind.”

“Literally, Lando could win seven races, and if Max finishes second, he still wouldn’t catch up. Of course, there are still 10 races left. Retirements do happen, but they go both ways.”

“So, 100%, we’re giving everything we have for both the constructors and drivers, but you have to say that, mathematically, it’s a taller mountain for the drivers.”

The American acknowledges that his team could have contended for both titles had the MCL38 been at its current level since Miami: “I think in racing and sports, it’s all about ‘could have, should have.’ Would I have liked to have today’s car at the first race? Yes, but that wasn’t the case.”

“So, I think it’s not about looking back and regretting certain things. You can learn from them, but the team has done a tremendous job. I think we are further ahead than anyone, including ourselves, had anticipated. So, I can only be pleased with what has happened since the start of the year.”