McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has firmly denied destroying evidence as the team’s legal battle with IndyCar champion Alex Palou intensified in London’s High Court. McLaren is seeking roughly $20 million in damages after Palou admitted to a breach of contract, having agreed to join the team from 2024 before opting to remain at Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR), where he has since added to his title tally.
Key developments
- McLaren is pursuing around $20 million in damages following Palou’s admitted breach of contract.
- Brown was pressed over WhatsApp “disappearing messages” and internal communications shared with the court.
- Screenshots presented include references to “Keep everything in WhatsApp and then delete” and a “mandated 7‑day” disappearing setting.
- Brown denied any intent to destroy evidence; Palou is set to be questioned on Friday.
The WhatsApp controversy at the heart of the dispute
During cross-examination, Brown was shown a series of WhatsApp messages submitted late by Palou’s legal team. The exchanges, involving former McLaren team manager Gavin Ward and a journalist, referenced McLaren’s use of WhatsApp’s disappearing messages feature. One screenshot cited a note that the function was used “to cover their ass on lawsuits,” while another captured Brown saying: “Keep everything in WhatsApp and then delete. I’ll respond [to] any changes here.”
Additional messages included a reference to a document with a password allegedly set to “Palou,” and remarks about turning off the team’s “mandated 7‑day disappearing messages” setting. The messages were dated in early August 2023, days before Palou’s decision to remain at CGR became public.
Brown’s denial and courtroom clash
Brown rejected the assertion that he sought to destroy evidence, countering accusations from Palou’s barrister, Nick De Marco, that he had turned on disappearing messages against legal advice. When asked directly whether the disappearing messages were enabled to “cover our asses,” Brown answered “No,” insisting there was no intent to obstruct disclosure or erase relevant material.
What’s next in the case
The proceedings are set to continue with Palou due to be questioned. The case turns on the enforceability and consequences of Palou’s agreement to join McLaren and the communications surrounding his eventual decision to remain with CGR. With strong claims and combative testimony on both sides, the High Court showdown is poised to shape the legal contours of driver contracts and team communications practices.
Why it matters
At stake is not only a significant damages claim but also reputational scrutiny over how top-tier motorsport teams manage sensitive negotiations. The outcome could influence how teams document internal decisions and the role of ephemeral messaging in high-stakes contract disputes.
