Zak Brown has alleged that Red Bull is “afraid” of Max Verstappen, as McLaren’s verbal sparring with the Formula 1 champions intensifies ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix this weekend.
McLaren have emerged as Red Bull’s main rivals recently, notably with Lando Norris frequently challenging Max Verstappen for wins in recent races.
The rivalry between McLaren and Red Bull has intensified, sparked by incidents like the clash between Norris and Verstappen at the Austrian Grand Prix, where both drivers suffered punctures in a late-race collision.
Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, defended Verstappen over team radio at the race’s conclusion, criticizing Norris for his conduct during their battle.
McLaren has been outspoken in their criticism of Verstappen and Red Bull’s racing tactics. Team principal Andrea Stella argued that the lack of significant penalties from the FIA following incidents involving Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton in 2021 has emboldened Verstappen to race aggressively against other drivers.
Stella’s remarks were echoed by Brown, who told media outlets, including PlanetF1.com, during the subsequent Silverstone race that Formula 1 teams bear a “responsibility” to educate drivers on appropriate conduct.
Brown also criticized Red Bull for what he perceived as a disregard for F1’s rules and regulations, accusing them of a “win-at-all-costs mentality” and asserting that McLaren does not condone such aggressive tactics.
Continuing the verbal exchange ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix in Budapest, Brown suggested that Red Bull is intimidated by Verstappen. In an interview with The Independent, he stated, “It appears to me that Red Bull is afraid of Max.”
Brown emphasized McLaren’s straightforward approach with their drivers, questioning why Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, publicly criticized Lando Norris over the incident at Silverstone when, in Brown’s view, the regulations were clear that Verstappen did not leave enough space during their battle.
Red Bull’s response to Brown’s criticisms has been somewhat subdued, with Christian Horner showing little inclination to engage directly. When questioned about Brown’s comments at Silverstone, Horner chose not to dignify them with a response, as reported by media outlets including PlanetF1.com.
Verstappen also appeared dismissive of Brown’s remarks when asked about them at the British Grand Prix, jokingly asking, “Who is Zak Brown?”
The exchanges between McLaren and Red Bull continue to highlight the intense competition and differing perspectives on racing conduct in Formula 1.