McLaren’s Zak Brown Takes a Jab at Lando Norris: “What a Wimp!” After Emotional Championship Celebration
In a moment that perfectly encapsulates the dramatic highs and lows of Formula 1, McLaren F1 Team Principal Zak Brown cheekily labeled rising star Lando Norris a “wimp” following the young driver’s emotional celebrations after clinching his first-ever drivers’ championship title. The thrilling climax at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix saw Norris secure third place, a result that cemented his status as the new champion of the racing world.
Emotions ran high as Norris celebrated this monumental achievement on the grid, surrounded by his proud parents, Adam Norris and Cisca Wauman. Over the team radio, his heartfelt words were unmistakable as he professed his love and gratitude for his family, who have been instrumental in his journey from karting prodigy to F1 sensation. It was a touching moment that showcased the deep bonds behind the glitz and glamour of professional racing.
However, Brown’s playful ribbing of his star driver was hard to miss during an interview with Capital FM. When asked about his congratulatory message to Norris, Brown couldn’t resist poking fun: “What a wimp,” he laughed, referring to Norris’s tears of joy. He recounted how his message flowed naturally, similar to his previous communication with rookie Oscar Piastri after their constructors’ championship victory last year. “I think he was crying there,” Brown added, emphasizing the emotional weight of the moment.
But the lighthearted banter didn’t end there. Brown found himself under fire for his contrasting tone when addressing Piastri post-race. While Norris basked in the glory of victory, Piastri faced a crushing disappointment. Despite an impressive season that saw him win seven Grands Prix, his mood was understandably somber. 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg criticized Brown for lacking sensitivity during that exchange, suggesting he should have shown more empathy towards Piastri during what was undoubtedly one of the toughest moments in the young driver’s career. “That’s his most horrible moment in his racing career,” Rosberg remarked during a live segment on Sky Sports F1. “Maybe Zak could have had a little more empathy there, rather than celebrating. He could have said, ‘Next year will be your year,’ but it’s difficult for Zak because he’s so ecstatic at the same time.”
As the F1 world continues to buzz with excitement over Norris’s monumental achievement, the contrasting reactions between the two drivers serve as a poignant reminder of the emotional rollercoaster that defines motorsport. With Brown at the helm, McLaren is set for a thrilling future, but the delicate balance of joy and sorrow in the world of racing will always be a defining narrative. As fans celebrate Norris’s rise, they can’t help but wonder how Piastri will bounce back from this setback—will next year truly be his year? Only time will tell.
