Brown: 'Shit happens’ but errors will only make McLaren stronger

McLaren’s triumphant 2025 Formula 1 season, which saw the team clinch both the Drivers and Constructors titles, was not without its challenges – but boss Zak Brown insists the lessons from its eventful campaign have only sharpened the team’s edge for the future.

The Woking squad dominated much of last season as rivals faltered, securing its second consecutive Constructors’ Championship by September’s Singapore Grand Prix.

However, the road to Lando Norris’ first Drivers’ Championship since 2008 was far from smooth. In a strategic gamble, McLaren allowed Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri to defend their own title chances until the very last race of the season, a decision that added drama – and tension – to the championship battle.

Yet, the team’s triumph was punctuated by mistakes that invited Red Bull’s Max Verstappen back into contention. From a double disqualification in Las Vegas for excessive skid wear to a strategic misstep in Qatar under an early safety car, McLaren occasionally stumbled.

Norris also suffered a technical retirement in Zandvoort, compounded by slow pitstops and a controversial position swap with Piastri at Monza.

Embracing Mistakes as Lessons

In an open letter to McLaren’s fans, Zak Brown was candid about these errors – but framed them as opportunities for growth.

"There were challenging moments along the way, and we definitely made some mistakes that played into the hands of our competitors - which are important to acknowledge - but these were dealt with swiftly and provided valuable lessons that made us better as a team," Brown wrote.

"We are racers and have been in this sport long enough to understand that s*** happens, and it’s part of the game - what’s important is how we react in these situations to help drive us forward.

“When we make mistakes, we take responsibility. We address difficult situations directly, openly and constructively, ensuring we move forward stronger and more aligned."

Brown emphasized that the team’s growth is ongoing.

"The lessons we learned last year – and there were many – are a part of our constant evolution as a team and will undoubtedly make us better prepared.

“We’re a relatively young team, but we learn quickly, and we bounce back with vigour and purpose. Championships are won by how teams respond under pressure, and I am proud of how we handled those more challenging moments."

Looking Ahead to 2026

McLaren faces – like its rivals – a massive reset for 2026, and Brown concede that “no one can possibly predict at this stage how the field will shape up.”

However, the team’s driver lineup remains one of its greatest assets, with Brown particularly bullish on Piastri’s potential.

“Oscar deserves immense credit," he said of the young Australian.

"He drove an unbelievable season. It’s easy to forget that he has contested only three Formula 1 seasons to date - he drives with an experience and skill that belies his years and conducts himself with the utmost professionalism and respect."

"We knew we had a star on our hands from the moment he arrived, and it has been a pleasure to watch him blossom into a title challenger in such short order. I have no doubt his star will continue to rise in the years to come."

As McLaren turns the page on a historic campaign, the message from its leader is clear: mistakes aren’t setbacks – they’re springboards, and Brown believes McLaren is stronger, wiser, and hungrier than ever for the battles ahead.

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