McLaren CEO Zak Brown has reflected on his rivalry with former Red Bull team boss Christian Horner. The Brit was dismissed after the Silverstone Grand Prix due to the team’s disappointing results. Horner often clashed with Mercedes chief Toto Wolff in the past, but Zak Brown also frequently sought confrontation in recent years. The American emphasizes that Formula 1 benefits from clashing characters.
Christian Horner was dismissed as team boss and CEO of Red Bull after the British Grand Prix in July. After twenty years of loyal service, his formal departure was finalized in September. The 51-year-old Brit has been negotiating a suitable severance package over the past few months. Reportedly, he will receive a whopping 100 million dollars from the team over a period of five years. Moreover, he could potentially return to Formula 1 as early as next summer. Horner has already been linked to Alpine, Aston Martin, and Haas.
Rivalry between Horner and Brown
Brown, who has often criticized Horner in the past – particularly when he was accused of overstepping boundaries in 2024 – reflected on their rivalry in a conversation with Bloomberg. “I think he (Horner) has had a great career in Formula 1; he has won numerous drivers’ and constructors’ titles,” stated Brown. “But when you step into this sport, you quickly realize that not everyone is your best friend. You simply need different characters.”
“Let’s just say we won’t be inviting each other for a cup of tea anytime soon,” Brown added. The American explained that the rivalry between the different teams is also a crucial part of the sport. “That’s precisely what makes Formula 1 so thrilling, that Netflix effect,” he continued. “Everything that happens off the track makes this sport unique. There’s not only an exciting competition on the track, but also beyond it. In the end, there’s only a small group of team bosses and drivers,” concluded the McLaren chief. “The fans can get to know all of us. Personally, I only have a few friends in the paddock, but that’s what makes it exciting and authentic.”
