McLaren’s Zak Brown Criticizes Helmut Marko’s Remarks on Lando Norris’ Mental Health as ‘Poor Taste

"Inappropriate Remarks" – Zak Brown Critiques Helmut Marko’s Statements on Lando Norris

Zak Brown of McLaren has expressed disapproval of Helmut Marko’s remarks regarding Lando Norris’ mental well-being.

McLaren's chief executive, Zak Brown, has condemned Helmut Marko for remarks regarding Lando Norris' mental health, asserting that these comments have regressed Formula 1 by a decade or two.

In an interview with the German outlet Motorsport Magazin, Red Bull consultant Marko suggested that Norris exhibits "a certain psychological vulnerability" when evaluating the McLaren driver's current championship battle with Max Verstappen, who is ahead in the standings by 52 points with only six races left.

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"Marko believes that [Max] stands out as the top contender due to his unparalleled speed and, most notably, his psychological resilience, positioning him as a stronger candidate for the global title than both Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris."

"Norris appears to have certain psychological vulnerabilities. I've come across information on various routines he must follow to ensure he does his best during a race."

Norris, who has openly discussed his mental health challenges since joining F1 in 2019, recently revealed that he struggles with consuming food or beverages before grand prix events because of the nervousness and anxiety he feels leading up to the races.

Brown expressed his dissatisfaction towards Marko, noting that he was "let down yet unsurprised" by the remarks made by the 81-year-old from Austria.

"Lando has essentially served as a spokesperson for mental health awareness. Toto [Wolff] has also addressed mental health issues, indicating it's a significant matter we've aimed to highlight and discuss openly," Brown mentioned on Friday at the United States Grand Prix.

"Delving into that matter, in my opinion, seems quite unsuitable and essentially takes us a step backward by a decade or two. While there's a lighthearted element to the way some individuals approach racing and the strategies they employ from an athletic standpoint, I found that particular instance to be in rather bad taste."

Ahead of the Austin race weekend, Verstappen mentioned that Oscar Piastri is "too talented" to merely play a supporting role to his McLaren teammate Norris in the championship race.

In response to inquiries about whether Verstappen's remarks had an effect on Norris, Brown stated, "Absolutely not. I noticed what Max had said.

"I have a fondness for Max, quite a strong one. We've engaged in some enjoyable conversations this year, which I believe is an integral aspect of the sport."

"Lando isn't bothered by it at all. Likewise, it doesn't trouble me either."

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