Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, has acknowledged the complexities involved in managing Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as both drivers set their sights on the 2025 Formula 1 Drivers' Championship. With the 2024 season now in the books, McLaren capped off a remarkable year by securing their first Constructors' Championship since 1998, a feat made possible by Norris’ win at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This victory not only marked a historic moment for the team but also positioned both Norris and Piastri as key contenders for individual success heading into the 2025 season.
Both Norris and Piastri have shown tremendous potential and ambition. Norris finished second in the 2024 championship, narrowly trailing Max Verstappen, and is expected to be one of the top challengers for the Drivers’ title in 2025. Piastri, on the other hand, delivered a standout performance in his debut season, gaining valuable experience and establishing himself as a formidable force within the team. Both drivers have expressed their aspirations to compete for the championship next year, which will certainly bring additional pressure on McLaren’s leadership.
In an interview with Sky Sports News, Brown admitted the challenge of balancing the aspirations of both drivers while keeping the team dynamic intact. "You want the clean sweep," Brown said, referencing the ultimate goal of securing both the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships. "Why not be greedy and say: 'I want the drivers’ one and the constructors’ too'? That’s the goal going into next year." He praised Norris for his consistent performances, including achieving eight pole positions in the 2024 season, and recognized Piastri’s impressive debut, where he quickly became a competitive force in the field. Brown believes both drivers are capable of fighting for the title in 2025, which will require McLaren to provide them with equally competitive cars.
However, Brown was clear that McLaren intends to treat both drivers equally, with no preferential treatment. “Only one of them can finish first on any given weekend,” Brown said, emphasizing that both drivers will have an equal opportunity to compete for victories. Despite the potential for internal rivalry, Brown highlighted the strong sense of teamwork between Norris and Piastri, referencing a moment during the Qatar Grand Prix where Norris made a point of repaying a favor to Piastri, demonstrating the unity within the McLaren garage.
Looking ahead, Brown is confident that McLaren will be able to provide both Norris and Piastri with competitive cars capable of challenging for wins and the championship. He acknowledged that the 2025 season will present its challenges, but he believes that with the right approach, McLaren can continue to compete at the highest level. The team’s focus will be on fairness, transparency, and ensuring that both drivers have the resources and support they need to achieve their goals. By tackling each race one at a time and maintaining a team-first mentality, Brown is optimistic that McLaren can build on their success from 2024 and continue to be a strong contender in the years ahead
