Zak Brown Responds to ‘Dispute’ With Piastri: “Nothing Happened”

Zak Brown has dismissed rumours of tension between McLaren and Oscar Piastri after the so-called “Singapore podium incident”. Social media speculation claimed Brown walked away from Piastri during celebrations, leading to suggestions of internal conflict. Brown now clarifies that nothing of the sort happened and calls the story “completely overblown”.

The debate started after cameras showed Brown briefly stepping aside while Piastri approached the podium. Online clips spread quickly, with some fans suggesting the McLaren CEO was unhappy with the Australian. As McLaren fights for both championships, speculation about the atmosphere inside the team has become a regular topic.

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Brown says the interpretation is wrong and insists the relationship with Piastri is as strong as ever.

“People Love a Drama That Isn’t There”

Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Brown was direct in his response. “There is nothing going on. People love to create a drama when there is none. Oscar and I have a great relationship.”

He explained that he simply moved aside to give Piastri space. “I stepped away so he could have his moment. That is all. There was no disagreement, no frustration, nothing. Sometimes a camera angle tells a different story from reality.”

McLaren United in the Title Fight

Inside the team, the rumours caused more amusement than concern. Piastri also laughed off the suggestion and said he felt fully supported by everyone at McLaren. Team boss Andrea Stella added that both sides of the garage are working closer than ever.

McLaren is in a fierce battle with Red Bull and Ferrari, and Brown believes unity is one of the team’s biggest strengths right now. “Oscar and Lando are pushing each other in a very healthy way. The team is in great shape. We are focused on performance, nothing else.”

Lessons From the Social Media Storm

Brown acknowledged that modern Formula 1 is vulnerable to misinterpretations. “Every small gesture is immediately analysed and blown up online. That is the world we live in, but inside the team we know the truth.”

With the title fight entering its final phase, Brown says McLaren cannot afford distractions. “We know what we are here to do. Our focus is on winning races and fighting for the championship. That is all that matters.”