Zak Brown: 'The best is yet to come' for McLaren ahead of 2026 regulations

Following a historic 2025 campaign that saw McLaren secure their first Constructors' and Drivers' championships since 1998, CEO Zak Brown is adamant that the team's peak performance is still on the horizon. Despite entering the new era as the team to beat, Brown emphasizes that the 2026 regulatory reset demands a fresh start and relentless development to maintain their competitive edge against hungry rivals.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season represents a massive challenge for the Woking-based squad. With new regulations reshaping the competitive landscape, the hard-won advantage from 2025 could evaporate quickly. Brown's confidence highlights the team's long-term strategy: using the momentum of their recent success to fuel their development cycle under the new technical rules, rather than resting on their laurels as the reigning champions.

The Details:

• Reflections on 2025: The road to the title was not without significant hurdles. McLaren faced operational errors including a double disqualification in Las Vegas due to excessive plank wear and a strategic blunder in Qatar regarding an early Safety Car period.
• Defending 'Papaya Rules': Brown staunchly defended the team's decision to allow Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to race freely. He argued that providing equal opportunity until the final laps in Abu Dhabi was the correct sporting approach, despite the nerve-wracking tension it caused on the pit wall.
• Culture of Accountability: The CEO acknowledged that mistakes are part of the sport but stressed the importance of the team's reaction. He emphasized taking responsibility and addressing difficult situations constructively to ensure the team emerges stronger and more aligned.

Looking Ahead:

While the 2025 double championship was monumental, Brown believes the squad is only just getting started. Andrea Stella and his leadership team have been working quietly in the background for an extended period to prepare for the regulatory reset. The goal is clear: to leverage the current foundation and ensure McLaren hits the ground running when the new era begins.