Zak Brown to Drive Iconic Williams Car at British Grand Prix Despite…. read more
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown is set to take on a unique dual role at the 2025 British Grand Prix, blending his executive responsibilities with a nostalgic trip down Formula 1 memory lane. In a surprising yet exciting twist, Brown will not only oversee McLaren’s campaign at Silverstone but also participate in an on-track demonstration behind the wheel of a classic Williams car.
The American motorsport executive, who currently leads McLaren’s F1 operations, will drive the legendary 1987 Williams FW11B—once raced by British icon Nigel Mansell—as part of the historic car showcase typically featured at Formula 1 events. Brown’s personal collection includes the original chassis driven by Mansell during one of the most iconic races in F1 history, and he’s preparing to give fans a rare spectacle during the Grand Prix weekend.
Speaking to ESPN, Brown expressed his excitement over piloting the classic machine in front of a home crowd. “I’ll take this out at the British Grand Prix this year, which I think the fans are gonna absolutely love,” said the 53-year-old. “I’m gonna personally take it out… I’ve never driven it before. We’ve just had it fully restored, it’s been shaken down, and it’s ready to go.”
Despite being firmly associated with McLaren, Brown’s temporary association with a rival team—albeit in a historic context—is sure to catch fans’ attention. Joking about the unusual optics, he remarked, “Might be a bit confused [as to] why the McLaren guy is in a Williams.”
The FW11B holds a special place in Formula 1 history. It is best known for Mansell’s dramatic performance at the 1987 British Grand Prix, where, after suffering a puncture, he mounted an astonishing comeback by breaking the lap record 17 times consecutively. His daring overtake on teammate Nelson Piquet to snatch victory is still celebrated as one of the sport’s greatest moments.
Brown recounted how he acquired the car through a sponsorship deal with Williams. During the negotiation, he asked the team if they could sell him a car. When they agreed, he immediately chose the iconic FW11B that Mansell had driven to glory.
“This was his favourite car to drive,” Brown said, underscoring its historical and sentimental value. The upcoming exhibition run will allow fans to witness a living piece of F1 heritage, driven by one of the sport’s most prominent modern-day figures—though in an unexpected livery.
While Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will be aiming for championship points, Brown will provide a different kind of thrill by bringing history to life on the Silverstone circuit.
