McLaren attacks Red Bull with ‘bogus all….Read More
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has issued a strong response to Red Bull’s recent accusations, daring the reigning Formula 1 constructors’ champions to formally protest if they truly believe McLaren is engaging in illegal tactics. The dispute stems from claims that McLaren has been using banned methods to manipulate tyre and brake temperatures, which Red Bull alleges give the Woking-based team a performance advantage.
The accusations, reported by German outlet Auto Motor und Sport, suggest that McLaren might be using water in their tyres to cool not only the rubber but also surrounding components. This strategy, if true, could result in improved tyre degradation and performance across both qualifying and race sessions. However, the FIA has reportedly found no evidence of wrongdoing, and Red Bull has allegedly taken matters into its own hands by using thermal imaging cameras to monitor McLaren’s activities.
In response to these allegations, Brown decided to inject some humor into the Miami Grand Prix weekend, seen drinking from a bottle labeled “tire water” in a playful jab at Red Bull. While Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reportedly laughed off the stunt, Brown has since escalated the matter, pointing to a broader issue within the sport: teams making baseless accusations without formally backing them.
Speaking to media, including RacingNews365, Brown emphasized the need for accountability when making such claims. “It was poking fun at a serious issue,” he said, referencing his satirical bottle stunt. “Historically, teams have made unsubstantiated allegations, and recently, one team more than others seems to rely on that tactic.”
Brown argued that if any team genuinely believes there is a technical violation, the proper course of action is to submit a formal protest through the FIA. This process requires transparency, official documentation, and a financial commitment. He proposed that this standard should apply to all allegations in order to prevent what he termed “frivolous” and “bogus” distractions.
“There should be a cost—both in money and in terms of the cost cap—if a team files an official protest and it turns out to be unfounded,” Brown suggested. “That would discourage teams from making backchannel accusations and help maintain a fair and respectful sporting environment.”
He stressed that McLaren has nothing to hide and encouraged Red Bull to follow proper procedures rather than attempting to unsettle rivals through unofficial channels. Brown’s comments reflect a growing frustration with what he perceives as gamesmanship rather than genuine sporting rivalry.
As tensions continue to rise between the two teams, all eyes will be on whether Red Bull chooses to act formally—or let the allegations fade. Either way, McLaren is clearly ready for the fight, both on and off the track.
