Zak Brown: McLaren Proved 'Impossible' Dual-Number-One Challenge Can Work

McLaren CEO Zak Brown says his team has successfully navigated what many considered an "impossible" challenge in Formula 1: operating with two genuine number-one drivers. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who each won seven races while battling for the 2025 Drivers' Championship, have demonstrated that a harmonious and equally competitive driver pairing is achievable, contrasting with the historical dominance of single, clear team leaders.

Why it matters:

The conventional wisdom in F1 has long held that a team needs a clear hierarchy to win championships, with a designated lead driver receiving preferential support. McLaren's success with Norris and Piastri challenges that dogma, proving a team can foster intense competition without the destructive internal rivalry seen in pairings like Hamilton and Rosberg at Mercedes. This model could influence how other top teams structure their line-ups in the future.

The details:

• Brown highlighted the calculated "risk" McLaren took in signing both drivers as rookies—Norris in 2019 and Piastri in 2023—and the reward of seeing them develop into world-class talents within the team.
• He emphasized the unique dynamic between the pair, noting they "genuinely enjoy racing each other" and have maintained a professional relationship without any major disputes, despite occasional frustrations directed at the team leadership.
• The 2025 season saw both drivers adhere to team orders when required, avoiding the public clashes and tactical games that have marred other top-team duels, showcasing a mature and team-first approach from both.

The big picture:

McLaren's approach stands in stark contrast to the established model at rivals like Red Bull, which is built unequivocally around Max Verstappen. Historically, champions like Senna, Schumacher, and Hamilton achieved their greatest successes as undisputed number ones within their teams. Brown's comments suggest McLaren is betting on a new paradigm for sustained success, built on internal competition managed through mutual respect and clear team culture, rather than enforced hierarchy.

What's next:

With both drivers under long-term contracts, McLaren has locked in its championship-winning partnership for the foreseeable future. The real test will be maintaining this productive equilibrium as the stakes get even higher in future title fights and through the regulatory changes coming in 2026. Their ability to continue this model could redefine driver management in the sport.