Former champion Nico Rosberg has criticized McLaren CEO Zak Brown for a lack of empathy towards Oscar Piastri. The Australian narrowly missed out on his first title during the final race in Abu Dhabi. He finished second behind Max Verstappen, while teammate Lando Norris secured enough points with his third-place finish to become champion. Despite this, Zak Brown was ecstatic over the team radio and did little to console Piastri.
Immediately after the race, Brown first congratulated Norris on his world title via the team radio. He then turned – with the same enthusiasm – to Piastri. The Australian was visibly upset after missing out on the title; he had led the World Championship for the longest time this year. “What a season, what a season,” Brown exclaimed. “You’re a star. Seven victories. We love you. We’ll do it again next year. Thank you, Oscar, for everything you’ve done. What a year.” He later added: “I’m very proud of you, you’ve done an amazing job. What a team player. We’ll try again next year, I’ll see you on the podium.”
Brown’s words drew a lot of criticism, including from former driver and analyst Nico Rosberg. “This was the most terrible moment in his (Piastri’s) racing career,” the German responded in a Sky Sports broadcast. “Zak could have shown a bit more empathy, instead of cheering so exuberantly. He could have said: ‘Next year will be your year.’ But that’s difficult for him, because he’s so elated at the same time.”
‘It’s a Ruthless Sport’
Brown later emphasized that Piastri can still achieve great success. “He is a future world champion,” he assured the press. “Our boys have both won seven races, driven fantastically, and supported each other. It’s a ruthless sport: sometimes everything falls your way, sometimes not. I look forward to working with these two drivers again next year. We’ve always let them race fairly against each other. Most people thought that was impossible. It’s a dream to work with these guys.”
The McLaren CEO has come under fire more often this year for his treatment of Piastri. Zak Brown was at the center of rumors that Lando Norris would receive preferential treatment within the team. The team orders – which often worked out in favor of the Brit – caused discussion. Rosberg previously stated that it makes sense for Norris to be favored, given his popularity and status within the team.
