The 2024 Formula 1 season may be nearing its conclusion, but the war of words between McLaren CEO Zak Brown and four-time world champion Max Verstappen shows no signs of cooling down. After enduring Verstappen’s pointed sarcasm throughout the season, Brown delivered a stinging response, reigniting one of the year’s most entertaining off-track feuds.
“Who is Zak Brown?” The Catalyst for the Clash
Earlier in the season, Verstappen, irritated by Brown’s frequent commentary about Red Bull, quipped during an interview, “Who is Zak Brown?” The remark, dripping with sarcasm, quickly went viral, sparking widespread discussion among fans and pundits. Now, with the championship wrapped up, Brown has taken the opportunity to hit back.
“I want to introduce myself: you may not know me, but I manage McLaren,” Brown cheekily remarked, reasserting his role as the head of one of F1’s most storied teams.
Brown Brushes Off the Banter
Despite the public sparring, Brown appeared to take Verstappen’s jabs in stride, framing them as part of the sport’s fiery competitive spirit. Brown even suggested Verstappen’s quip was rooted in humor, though he lamented how some interpreted it negatively.
“Max has a good sense of humor. A joke like that—that’s part of it, isn’t it? It’s just a shame that people sometimes misjudge that and take it the wrong way,” Brown said.
Brown also shared that he and Verstappen have exchanged playful texts over the season, revealing a behind-the-scenes camaraderie despite their public sparring. However, Brown stopped short of letting Verstappen off the hook entirely.
McLaren’s Championship Struggles and Resilience
The 2024 season has been a mixed bag for McLaren. While their car boasted the fastest chassis on the grid, they couldn’t match the dominant skills of Verstappen, who secured his fourth drivers’ championship with ease. Reflecting on the season, Brown emphasized the importance of focusing forward rather than dwelling on defeats or engaging in unnecessary hostilities.
“We don’t need to spend time trying to slag people off or whatever. The championship is done, and we’ll try again next year,” Brown asserted confidently.
With McLaren still locked in a tight battle with Ferrari for the Constructors’ Championship, Brown’s focus remains firmly on finishing the season strong. The teams are separated by just 21 points heading into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, setting the stage for an electrifying finale at Yas Marina.
Ferrari vs. McLaren: The Battle for Second
The season’s final race promises high drama as McLaren and Ferrari duel for supremacy in the Constructors’ standings. Ferrari has steadily closed the gap, and with both teams hungry for the runner-up spot, the Abu Dhabi GP could be a fitting climax to an exhilarating season.
While Verstappen and Red Bull have already claimed their titles, the rivalry between McLaren and Ferrari—and the ongoing drama between Brown and Verstappen—ensures that F1 fans won’t lack for excitement this weekend.