McLaren team principal Zak Brown has firmly denied rumours that four-time Formula One world champion Max Verstappen is set to join the team, amid ongoing speculation about the Dutch driver's future at Red Bull.
Brown's Radio Interview Denials
Speaking on the Chris Moyles Show on Radio X, Brown stated: "We have two awesome racing drivers in Lando and Oscar, and you're going to see them in our race cars for a long, long time." He reiterated this stance during an appearance on Heart Breakfast with Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden, adding: "Yeah, we’re a hot team. You know, it's a great, great place to be. We've got two awesome drivers in Lando and Oscar, so no intention of seeing any different lineup."
However, Brown did acknowledge Verstappen's talent, saying: "But, you know, flattering, and the phone rings often, and he's in a massive talent, so we'll see what the future holds, what he ends up doing. But I know what our plan is – it’s keep going with what we got." When pressed further, he remarked: "Well, I think you know, anytime you're in sport, you’ve got to kind of know what the markets doing, but we're not in the market. So, we need to pay attention, because you never know. But Lando and Oscar won 14 for us last year, and I'm looking forward to the next 14."
Verstappen's Season and Future Speculation
Verstappen has experienced an inconsistent 2026 season, with highlights including a second-place finish at the Austrian Grand Prix. Despite this, he has hinted at quitting Formula One altogether following the regulation changes for 2026, fuelling rumours of a potential departure from Red Bull. The speculation has persisted despite the team's strong performances in previous years.
McLaren's Current Standings
McLaren, who enjoyed significant success last season, have struggled to replicate that form in 2026. The team currently sits third in the Constructors' Championship, with neither Lando Norris nor Oscar Piastri inside the top three of the Drivers' Championship standings. The next race is the British Grand Prix at Silverstone this weekend, followed by a two-week break before the Belgian Grand Prix in mid-July.
