Zak Brown has made it clear that McLaren have no intention of changing their driver line-up despite ongoing speculation linking four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen with the team.
Ahead of the 2026 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Verstappen’s future once again became one of the biggest talking points in the Formula 1 paddock. Although the Dutch driver remains under contract with Red Bull Racing until the end of the 2028 season, widespread reports have suggested that a performance-related clause in his contract could allow him to explore opportunities elsewhere. With Verstappen currently enduring a difficult campaign and sitting seventh in the drivers’ standings, more than 100 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli, speculation about a possible move has intensified.
Among the teams linked with the reigning world champion has been McLaren, with reports claiming preliminary discussions had taken place between Verstappen’s management and the Woking-based outfit. There have also been rumours that Red Bull could attempt to keep their star driver by offering a substantial financial package to remove or renegotiate the reported exit clause.
Despite the growing speculation, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has dismissed the possibility of Verstappen joining the team anytime soon.
Speaking before McLaren’s home race, Brown admitted that Verstappen is one of the finest talents on the Formula 1 grid and joked that he would gladly sign him if circumstances allowed. However, he stressed that the reality is very different because McLaren already has two drivers it fully believes in.
Brown explained that while any team would naturally be interested in having a driver of Verstappen’s calibre, McLaren has no available seat. He emphasized that both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri remain central to the team’s long-term plans, with both drivers secured on lengthy contracts extending several more seasons.
The McLaren chief praised the partnership between Norris and Piastri, highlighting not only their speed but also the positive atmosphere they have created within the team. According to Brown, their strong working relationship has played a major role in McLaren’s recent success, making any driver change unnecessary.
He pointed to the team’s impressive achievements over the past year, including winning 14 Grands Prix and taking both the Constructors’ Championship and Drivers’ Championship. Brown noted that both drivers were capable of fighting for victories and championships, while maintaining a healthy relationship inside the garage—something he believes is invaluable for sustained success.
Although Brown acknowledged Verstappen’s exceptional ability, he expressed complete confidence that Norris and Piastri have already shown they can compete directly against the Dutchman on equal terms. He believes McLaren’s current pairing is among the strongest in Formula 1 and sees no reason to disrupt a combination that continues to deliver outstanding performances.
Brown did leave the door slightly open in a light-hearted manner, joking that if an unexpected vacancy somehow appeared, any team principal would naturally consider signing one of the world’s best drivers. However, he quickly reiterated that such a scenario is purely hypothetical and that no driver changes are being considered.
For now, McLaren’s position is crystal clear. While Verstappen remains one of the sport’s biggest stars and continues to attract attention across the Formula 1 paddock, Brown insists the team is fully committed to Norris and Piastri. As McLaren continues its title defence, the focus remains on building with the successful driver pairing already in place rather than pursuing one of Formula 1’s most sought-after names.
