BREAKING: McLaren Chief Zak Brown Absent at Canadian Grand Prix due to…read more
Canadian Grand Prix: The Reason Behind Zak Brown’s Absence This Weekend
McLaren CEO Zak Brown is noticeably missing from the Formula 1 paddock at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, a rare sight given his usual high-profile involvement during race weekends.
The American executive, who oversees McLaren’s operations across multiple racing series, is currently in France attending the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His absence in Montreal is a reminder that his responsibilities extend beyond Formula 1, especially as McLaren broadens its motorsport ambitions.
Brown’s presence at Le Mans follows McLaren’s recent announcement confirming their return to the legendary endurance event. The team plans to enter the Hypercar category starting in 2027, marking their first official participation since their unforgettable debut win in 1995.
This is not the first time in 2025 that Brown has had to choose between major motorsport events. Earlier this year, the Monaco Grand Prix and the Indianapolis 500—two races that fall on the same weekend—forced him to split his focus, as McLaren continues pursuing motorsport’s elusive Triple Crown: Monaco, Indy 500, and Le Mans.
Announcing McLaren’s return to Le Mans earlier this year, Brown stated on social media:
“Excited that McLaren Racing will return to one of the world’s most challenging global racing series, the FIA WEC from 2027 onwards. Le Mans 1995 is where we secured a legendary win at the first attempt, and I can’t wait for the team to make history once again. We’re back!”
He also added in a video message:
“30 years ago, we won on our debut at Le Mans in a car that wasn’t even supposed to race. That made us the only team in history to win the Triple Crown.”
While Brown is focused on long-term goals in France, McLaren’s Formula 1 operations continue in Canada under Team Principal Andrea Stella. Brown’s absence may be unusual, but it underlines McLaren’s bold vision to excel across multiple racing platforms and reclaim its place in endurance racing history.
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