McLaren finds itself in a fortunate position with two young, exceptionally talented drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, under contract. However, the ambitious nature of both drivers is acknowledged to potentially lead to tensions. Zak Brown acknowledges the likelihood of rising conflicts between the two drivers in the near future.
The reality of having two highly ambitious drivers becomes apparent when a team possesses talents capable of challenging for race victories and championships. Brown recognizes the internal conflicts that may arise due to the competitive spirit of Norris and Piastri. While he doesn’t consider a “civil war” between the drivers a concern, he is aware that the competition will intensify, and one driver will have to outperform the other in various races.
Brown is realistic about the situation and understands the inevitable day when the drivers prioritize their individual interests. Despite this, he expresses confidence in his and team principal Andrea Stella’s ability to manage the situation effectively. According to Brown, their strengths lie in driver management, and they aim to ensure a healthy competitive environment within the team.
In their first season together, Norris, leveraging his extensive Formula 1 experience, outperformed Piastri. However, Piastri’s impressive rookie campaign showcased considerable talent, possibly the best since Lewis Hamilton’s debut 16 years ago. While they generally worked well together, a notable incident occurred at the Italian Grand Prix when the drivers collided at the first chicane, prompting a stern response from Stella.
Acknowledging the need for timely intervention, Brown emphasizes the importance of proactive management. A “healthy conversation” took place after the Monza incident, demonstrating the approach of addressing issues promptly rather than waiting for them to escalate. Brown draws on his own experience as a driver to understand the psychology of managing drivers effectively, emphasizing the significance of timing and approach in maintaining a positive team dynamic.