McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes Formula 1 must look into measures to address the relationship between A and B teams on the grid. These concerns are in direct relation to Red Bull and AlphaTauri, who are increasingly under the limelight.
The role of politics can never be overlooked in Formula 1, a sport that constantly experiences in-fighting between teams. Regulatory changes, adjustments to the rules and technical directives are all part of this equation.
Heading into 2024, one topic is already emerging as a clear point of contention across the field.
Zak Brown has been the most outspoken critic of the relationship between Red Bull and AlphaTauri.
This partnership has come under significant scrutiny since changes were announced last year. Specifically, the reigning Champions have introduced measures to work more closely with their second team.
In terms of both performance and commercial benefits, this new approach is already manifesting itself.
Zak Brown argues for change
Amidst this evolution, McLaren’s CEO argues that such changes are detrimental to Formula 1 and its integrity:
“We have some work to do around the rules,” he told Sky Sports.
“I think the A-B team is a real problem moving forward. I think co-ownership, you don’t really have that in any sport.
“And I think that provides a lot of conflict of interest.
“So now that we have a budget cap, we need to be really a sport of total and fairness.
“And I think any time you have an entity that owns two teams, or an A or B relationship, I think it really starts to compromise the integrity of sporting fairness.
“That’s something that really needs to be tackled.”
These are not Zak Brown’s first comments on this issue, and they almost certainly won’t be the last.
AlphaTauri’s potential to become more competitive in 2024 could attract additional attention and calls for change.
Christian Horner has already dismissed these concerns, and it seems probable the Red Bull team principal will be forced to defend his position throughout the year.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
