McLaren CEO Brown Accuses Horner of F1 Fame Influence

McLaren CEO Zak Brown has accused former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner of changing due to the pressures of fame and success in Formula 1, reigniting a long-standing rivalry between the two executives. In an interview with The Telegraph, Brown reflected on their shared history and recent tensions, suggesting Horner's exposure to public acclaim through Netflix's Drive to Survive series, along with financial rewards and competitive glory, altered his approach to the sport.

Brown and Horner have known each other for more than 30 years, dating back to their time competing in Formula Three. The McLaren leader described their early relationship positively, stating, "We used to get on." He praised Horner's achievements, adding, "His results are amazing. So, hats off." Horner, who departed Red Bull shortly after the British Grand Prix in July, oversaw the team's rise to dominance, securing 14 world championships in drivers' and constructors' standings across two decades with drivers including Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.

The pair's rapport soured as McLaren emerged as a stronger contender, particularly after Red Bull's breach of the 2021 cost cap regulations. Their...