McLaren CEO Zak Brown warns against F1 co‑ownership as Mercedes‑Alpine talks heat up

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown says co‑ownership of Formula 1 teams is “unhealthy” for the sport, as it threatens competitive fairness. He points to Mercedes’ rumored Alpine stake and Red Bull’s Racing Bulls as warning signs, urging the FIA to keep a tight leash on such arrangements.

Why it matters:

• Shared ownership blurs rival lines, creating real or perceived conflicts of interest.
• It undermines credibility with fans, sponsors and broadcasters who expect a level playing field.
• The FIA’s Concord Agreement already flagged co‑ownership, so the issue is on the regulator’s radar.

The details:

• Mercedes supplies power units to McLaren and Alpine and is rumored to seek a 24% stake in Alpine.
• Minority owners include Otro Capital (Rory McIlroy), Wrexham’s Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney, and RedBird Capital (owner of AC Milan).
• Brown says the concern applies to any A/B teams or co‑ownership, regardless of who’s involved.
• He isn’t singling out Red Bull or its principal Laurent Mekies, noting open dialogue with the Frenchman.
• Brown wrote to the FIA, saying it’s now watching ownership talks more closely.

What’s next:

• The FIA may require Alpine to divest if a conflict emerges.
• Teams with dual roles could face tighter disclosure rules under future Concord updates.
• Brown stresses that a clear split between engine suppliers and team owners is essential for F1’s long‑term health.