Red Bull boss Christian Horner has paid tribute to McLaren’s incredible resurgence in 2024, as the Woking-based squad clinched its first Constructors’ title in over two decades. With two exceptional drivers and a relentless campaign, McLaren ended Red Bull’s dominance—and Horner isn’t holding back his admiration.
McLaren’s Journey to the Top
For the first time since 1998, McLaren sits atop the Formula 1 world as Constructors’ champions. Despite a slow start to the 2024 season, the British team surged ahead in the latter half of the year, outpacing rivals Red Bull and Ferrari to claim the coveted title at the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
Led by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, McLaren proved their mettle with consistency, teamwork, and strategic brilliance. Their performance marked a remarkable turnaround, showcasing their ability to out-develop and out-strategize some of the sport’s biggest names.
Horner’s Praise: ‘They’ve Had an Awesome Year’
Though his own team faltered late in the season, Christian Horner wasn’t shy about tipping his hat to McLaren’s success.
“You’ve got to salute what McLaren have done this year,” Horner said. “They’ve done a very, very good job. They’ve had a good car, they’ve had two great drivers, and they’ve had an awesome year.”
For Red Bull, the defeat marked the end of a dominant run. McLaren’s triumph over Ferrari and Red Bull at the Abu Dhabi GP was a decisive blow, further solidifying their status as the season’s standout performers.
Zak Brown’s Tattoo Tradition Lives On
As McLaren celebrates its long-awaited title, one question looms in the paddock: What tattoo will Zak Brown get next?
The McLaren CEO, known for commemorating major milestones with ink, has already tattooed victories from Daniel Ricciardo’s 2021 Italian GP win and Lando Norris’ maiden F1 triumph. Now, Christian Horner can’t wait to see how Brown will celebrate this historic Constructors’ title.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what tattoo Zak is going to emblazon on himself for a constructors’ world championship,” Horner quipped.
McLaren’s New Challenge: Sustaining Momentum
While McLaren basks in their success, they know the battle is far from over. With Red Bull vowing to come back stronger in 2025, McLaren must maintain their momentum and build on this year’s success.
Zak Brown and his team have ended a 26-year drought, but to truly cement their comeback, they’ll need to remain competitive in the face of fierce competition from Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes.
The End of an Era? Or a New Rivalry Brewing?
McLaren’s Constructors’ Championship victory marks a seismic shift in Formula 1. For Red Bull, it’s a wake-up call—a reminder that even dominance can be challenged with the right combination of talent, innovation, and determination.
As 2025 approaches, the sport gears up for what promises to be an electrifying rivalry. Will Red Bull reclaim their throne, or has McLaren reignited a championship-winning dynasty?
One thing is certain: Christian Horner’s salute to McLaren isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning of a new era in Formula 1.
