10/10/2025 09:50
Zak Brown has credited the "culture and unity" at McLaren as the
driving force behind the Woking-based squad wrapping up consecutive
F1 constructors' championships for the first time since 1991. The
American reflected on the achievement as the team celebrated at the
McLaren Technology Centre (MTC), highlighting how far the papaya
outfit has come since the start of the 2023 campaign, when a
developmental wrong turn had left it with the least competitive
package on the grid. Labelling it "one of the biggest turnarounds
in Formula 1 history", the McLaren Racing CEO highlighted the
success attained in the current "papaya era" at the team. "It's
great to be able to come together and celebrate the success that we
have achieved as a team," the 53-year-old said. "We can also take
this moment to reflect on the papaya era of McLaren, which began in
2018 but truly came into full force in 2023. "To have been able to
achieve one of the biggest turnarounds in Formula 1 history is
something everyone can be proud of. "Since the beginning of this
era, we've celebrated 18 pole positions, 19 victories, 67 podiums
and nine 1-2 finishes, while also delivering back-to-back
constructors' championships. "This success is down to the culture
and unity that drives this team alongside the valued support of our
incredible fans and partners. I'm looking forward to continuing
this journey together." A gentle reminder Both Lando Norris and
Oscar Piastri were present at the celebrations, with the former
underlining the crushing dominance of the MCL39. "It's an
incredible feeling to have done it again," said the British driver.
"To be world champions for the second year in a row is just as
special as the first time. "The team have given us an incredible,
dominant car that's been a joy to drive every weekend. Celebrating
with everyone today at the MTC makes me smile and will be a moment
I'll remember forever." With one title down, there is still one to
be decided, and the two team-mates are locked in a close fight for
their maiden F1 drivers' crowns, something Piastri was quick to
point out. Just 22 points separate the pair with six rounds —
including three sprints — of the schedule left to run. "What we've
been able to achieve over the last few seasons is impressive," the
Australian remarked. "We've come a long way, and to be able to say
that we've recorded one of the most dominant seasons in Formula 1
history is incredibly special, I'm grateful to be able to celebrate
that with everyone at MTC. "To fight consistently at the front of
the Formula 1 grid is a real honour, and it's only possible thanks
to every single member of the team. "We still have a quarter of the
season to go, which is a gentle reminder that there's a lot of
racing ahead. I'm looking forward to what's to come and seeing what
we can achieve in the final six rounds of the season."