McLaren’s Zak Brown Unleashes Controversial Strategy: ‘Destabilising’ Rivals with ‘Poison Biscuits’
In a shocking revelation that is sending ripples through the world of Formula 1, McLaren F1’s chief, Zak Brown, has boldly admitted to a strategy that could rattle the foundations of the sport: deliberately ‘destabilising’ rival teams. This audacious tactic comes on the heels of McLaren’s magnificent resurgence, clinching back-to-back world constructors’ championships in 2024 and 2025—a feat not achieved since the glory days of 1998.
Under the astute leadership of Brown and team principal Andrea Stella, McLaren has transformed from a struggling contender at the start of the 2023 season to a powerhouse, with Lando Norris soaring to become the first drivers’ champion from McLaren since the legendary Lewis Hamilton in 2008. This triumphant comeback has left fans and competitors alike in awe.
But how exactly does McLaren maintain this competitive edge? “It’s not just about making our own team as formidable as possible,” Brown revealed in an eye-opening interview with TalkSPORT. “We are also engaged in a fierce battle to undermine our competitors.” His comments underscore the dramatic psychological warfare that characterizes modern Formula 1 racing.
Stella, in a twist of phrase, referred to this strategic maneuvering as ‘poison biscuits.’ This metaphor encapsulates the mental games that play out not just on the racetrack but in the minds of drivers and teams alike. Trash-talking among competitors is merely the tip of the iceberg; it’s part of a broader strategy to infiltrate and disrupt the mental fortitude of rival teams.
With the 2026 season on the horizon, the stakes are even higher. New regulations threaten to shake up the competitive landscape yet again. While McLaren dominated the 2025 season, winning an impressive 14 out of 24 races, the impending regulatory changes could spell uncertainty for their continued success. Rumors abound that Mercedes may have the inside track on mastering these new rules, casting a shadow of doubt over McLaren’s championship aspirations.
However, Stella remains optimistic. The team principal has expressed confidence in McLaren’s ability to adapt and remain a formidable force in the upcoming season, praising the talent of their senior technicians and engineers based in Woking.
As McLaren prepares for a battle not just against the clock on the racetrack but also against the psychological tactics employed by their rivals, one thing is clear: the quest for glory in Formula 1 is as much about mind games as it is about speed. Will McLaren continue to rise to the challenge, or will the ‘poison biscuits’ strategy backfire? The world will be watching closely as the new season approaches.








