Sun Aug 03 14:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**McLaren CEO Zak Brown Sees “Healthier” F1 Politics with Mekies at Red Bull**

BUDAPEST, Hungary – McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has expressed optimism for a shift towards a more collaborative and less contentious political landscape in Formula One, following Laurent Mekies’ appointment at Red Bull in place of Christian Horner. Horner’s dismissal at the Red Bull team principal came as a shock to the F1 paddock, following last month’s British Grand Prix after more than 20 years in charge.

Brown and Horner have publicly clashed over issues such as Red Bull’s cost cap breach penalty and technical aspects of McLaren’s car. The rivalry was a recurring theme in the “Drive to Survive” series, including an incident where Horner used disparaging language towards Brown after Brown’s call for transparency during an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior made against Horner. Horner has denied the allegations.

Brown believes that Mekies’ presence will foster a healthier environment, allowing teams to focus more on on-track competition. “I’m happy he’s in the role he’s in,” Brown said of Mekies. “I like Laurent, and I think that’ll be healthy and maybe we can get back to focusing on competition on the track.”

Brown highlighted the positive dynamic McLaren enjoyed during its battle with Ferrari for last year’s constructors’ title, emphasizing the possibility of intense competition without resorting to excessive political maneuvers or “frivolous allegations.” He hopes for a return to a more trusting atmosphere where teams can collaborate on matters beneficial to the sport without fear of manipulation.

McLaren has emerged as a leading team in F1, challenging Red Bull’s dominance and winning last year’s constructors’ title ahead of Ferrari. While Max Verstappen secured the drivers’ crown last year, McLaren’s drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, have shown a strong performance so far this season.

Although Brown anticipates Horner’s eventual return to F1, he acknowledged a notable improvement in relations with Red Bull since Mekies’ arrival, mentioning a recent productive meeting. He contrasted this with his relationship with Horner, stating that it had been “a long time ago” since they’d had such a meeting, potentially dating back to their Formula Three racing days.

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