McLaren Chief Zak Brown Criticizes Red Bull for ‘Encouraging’ Verstappen’s Aggressive Tactics Following Norris Clash

Zak Brown points finger at Red Bull for promoting Max Verstappen's combative approach

Zak Brown throws shade at Red Bull following the incident between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris in Austria.

McLaren's top executive, Zak Brown, has criticized Red Bull for seemingly promoting Max Verstappen's forceful approach to racing, especially after his crash with Lando Norris in Austria.

The initial significant confrontation between Verstappen and Norris took place during an intense race for first place in the previous weekend's Austrian Grand Prix, where a collision between the two disrupted their chances of winning.

Verstappen and Norris have minimized the significance of their incident and maintain that they are still on good terms. However, McLaren's leader, Brown, thinks the collision was unnecessary and has proposed the idea of establishing a permanent group of officials.

"The contest was truly remarkable, thrilling for the spectators and everyone involved in Formula 1," Brown remarked during Friday's FIA press briefing at Silverstone, with Crash.net present in the paddock. "It seemed inevitable that we would witness the two competitors face off directly.

"Clearly, the result was regrettable from what seemed to be a minor incident. However, looking back on the weekend, it's apparent that there's a consensus, including with the FIA, on the necessity to enhance our approach to stewardship. This involves a commitment to ensuring more consistent application and enforcement of the rules."

"I believe employing stewards on a part-time basis is quite challenging, especially considering the high standards required in Formula 1. Max and Lando were simply competing as anticipated."

"Unless Max is informed that it breaches the rules, he'll remain unaware. It appears there were overlooked chances for the officials to point this out. It's also disheartening to see a top-tier team like Red Bull seemingly promoting this behavior, as evidenced by the communications heard over the radio."

Everyone involved at the pit wall has a duty to inform our drivers about the rules, the don'ts, and the ongoing developments during the race. Therefore, it's crucial that we adhere to and respect the set regulations. There has been a noticeable disregard for these rules, including financial constraints and on-track sporting behavior, as well as issues involving drivers' fathers and similar matters.

"I simply believe that's not the correct approach to racing, and it's essential to instruct our drivers on proper conduct. Perhaps, if this issue had been tackled sooner, that situation might have been avoided."

"An incident occurred during the race, which, in my opinion, might have been prevented if both the pit wall team and the officials had a clearer understanding and enforcement of the rules."

When questioned about the suitable punishment for Verstappen, Brown responded, "I believe the penalty issued was fair. Drivers are expected to leave enough space for a car's width, which he failed to do.

"Regrettably, it might have been a minor scrape and continued as such. However, I believed the penalty imposed was appropriate, as dictated by the rules. Once more, I regard Max as an incredible racing talent, battling for the top spot."

"As teams, it's our duty to inform the drivers about the boundaries. Without this guidance, I wouldn't anticipate any different behavior from Max."

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