McLaren CEO Zak Brown Stands Behind FIA’s Crack Down on Political Statements

McLaren CEO Zak brown says that it was a smart decision, just weeks after the FIA announced plans for drivers to refrain from making unapproved political statements.

In recent years, drivers have become more vocal on political issues. This has led to the FIA edict. Race weekends sometimes featured drivers’ speaking out about issues in the host country, something that was sure to be a headache for FIA brass.

It’s a touchy subject as drivers — like anyone — should be able to speak their minds. Still, the sports’ governing body needs to maintain its relationships, not just with drives, but also with promoters and host nations.

ESPN spoke to McLaren CEO Zak Brown — an American at the helm of an iconic British team — about the issue.

“It’s tricky, right? Because some of the topics are really good, some are controversial, some are polarising.”

Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton and Lewis Hamilton were two of the most prominent drivers to speak out about issues. Both were fierce critics against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, especially in Hungary and the Middle East. Meanwhile, Hamilton He wore a shirt that called attention to the death Breonna Taylor’s, while Vettel was well-known for calling out nations to address environmental issues.

“I think in general we want to be a sport that is doing good. We just need to find a balance there and not have every start of a race being a new political agenda for someone. I don’t think that’s healthy as it can detract from what everyone has tuned in to, which is they want to watch a Grand Prix.”

McLaren CEO Zak Brown talked about drivers making political statements and how the FIA’s attempts to clamp down on them are for the good of the sport/. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Image) Brown Seems to Be in Touch With

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