Amid ongoing Max Verstappen Mercedes transfer rumours, McLaren’s Zak Brown has firmly committed to Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as his championship line-up. These comments arrive as speculation about the Dutchman’s next move sweeps the motorsport world, and the future of George Russell at Mercedes remains a subject of debate.
Zak Brown, McLaren CEO, expressed unwavering belief in his team’s current drivers during a recent media conversation, making clear he has no interest in changing the successful pairing. Attention has been increasing on Verstappen after a strong season in which he currently sits third in the championship race, fueling the rumour mill around a possible switch to Mercedes—a move that could impact British ace George Russell despite his own recent victories, including a win in Canada.
Zak Brown Endorses Norris and Piastri as McLaren’s Core
Recent discussions about the future of McLaren and its drivers surfaced as Mercedes became linked with Verstappen. When asked whether he would consider a move for the four-time world champion, Brown was quick and emphatic with his reply. Pressed further about his plans during a Virgin Radio interview, he declared his loyalty to Norris and Piastri, both considered by Brown as vital to McLaren’s recent resurgence.
“100 per cent my guys. I love my guys,”
—Zak Brown, McLaren CEO
Norris and Piastri, aged 25 and 23 respectively, have been credited with bringing both speed and chemistry to the McLaren garage. Brown described them as top competitors and teammates, explaining that their different personalities and mutual competitiveness have driven McLaren to recent successes.
“If you can get that vibe in the garage where you’ve got Lando and Oscar, who are fiercely competitive with each other but are teammates and team players, then I don’t want to change anything.”
—Zak Brown, McLaren CEO
Norris and Piastri’s Dynamic Powers McLaren’s Approach
Brown drew parallels between the driver partnership and his own collaboration with team principal Andrea Stella, highlighting how contrasting skill sets can create a productive and balanced team environment. He described Norris and Piastri as an “odd couple,” comparing their dynamic to Stella and himself, each bringing complementary abilities to the table.
“You kind of have that with Lando and Oscar. They push each other and they learn from each other on and off the track.”
—Zak Brown, McLaren CEO
This synergy within the team, according to Brown, is a central reason for McLaren’s stature in recent races and its competitive edge over rivals. The drivers’ personalities and working relationship have, in his view, reinforced McLaren’s core values and competitive culture.
Zak Brown Tips Norris for Silverstone Legacy
Brown’s confidence in Norris was further demonstrated when discussing possible honours for his star driver. He suggested Norris could be recognized at Silverstone—home of the British Grand Prix—by having a section of the iconic track named after him, akin to legends Nigel Mansell and Lewis Hamilton.
“I think he’d probably say the bigger the section, the better.”
—Zak Brown, McLaren CEO
Brown went on to describe Norris’s popularity among fans, predicting that a strong performance at the upcoming British Grand Prix would ignite excitement on par with Mansell and Hamilton during their glory days.
“He just needs to keep doing what he’s doing, you know, got to get results on the board, which obviously is what he’s doing.”
—Zak Brown, McLaren CEO
What the Future Holds Amid Driver Market Speculation
As Max Verstappen Mercedes transfer rumours continue to make headlines, and with George Russell’s future subject to intense scrutiny despite his recent achievements, Brown’s public vote of confidence for Norris and Piastri brings stability to McLaren and closes the door on star signings. The McLaren CEO’s steadfast approach signals trust in the next generation, with Norris and Piastri representing the team’s ongoing hopes in Formula 1’s evolving landscape.
The ongoing speculation surrounding driver transfers is likely to persist as the season progresses, especially with Verstappen’s contract situation garnering attention and Mercedes evaluating its options. For McLaren, however, the message is clear: the current line-up of Norris and Piastri is set to remain the driving force behind the team’s pursuit of further success, anchoring the squad during a time of change and uncertainty in the F1 paddock.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?
A. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Verstappen’s net worth is thought to be about $200 million.
Q. Why is Max Verstappen so rich?
A. Verstappen ranked 24th, finishing just above football player and occasional diver Neymar Jr, with total earnings of $78 million. Most of Verstappen’s income, around $72 million, came from his salary and bonuses with Red Bull. The other $6 million came from business deals such as personal sponsorships and selling merchandise.
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. Max Verstappen and his partner, Kelly Piquet, have shared happy news before the Miami Grand Prix. They announced that their first child, a baby girl, has been born.
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. Max Verstappen and his partner Kelly Piquet have announced that they now have a daughter. This is the first child the couple has had together.