Oct.18 (GMM) McLaren’s claims of transparency came under fresh scrutiny in Austin, as CEO Zak Brown declined to clarify the “repercussions” facing Lando Norris following his clash with teammate Oscar Piastri in Singapore.
Two weeks after Norris admitted there were internal “consequences” for the incident, Brown sidestepped repeated questions about what those were – despite the team’s frequent emphasis on openness.
Rumours suggest McLaren’s so-called “Papaya Rules” team-orders framework has been quietly adjusted, but Brown’s comments in Friday’s FIA press conference and later to Sky Italia only deepened the ambiguity.
“Everyone would love to hear the details of what we discussed, but some things are private,” the American told Sky Italia.
“We were transparent – we found Lando responsible for an accident,” Brown said. “I would be surprised if they (the consequences) were noticeable on the track, because they are quite minor and consistent with what happened. We don’t want our cars to touch.
“I think only very experienced observers would be able to see anything. It was just a minor incident. The penalty is within the sporting scope.”
On Sky Deutschland, former F1 driver Timo Glock scoffed: “Lando’s allowance was cut. He’s been grounded,” he joked.
“In my opinion, it’s like this – either state clearly what’s going on, or say nothing at all. They should say, ‘We have our Papaya Rules, whatever they are, and we keep them to ourselves.’ But this ‘yes, there are consequences, but we’re not going to say it,’ is utter nonsense.
“Either I keep my mouth shut and say nothing about it, or I don’t make myself vulnerable,” said the German.
Glock believes McLaren’s mixed messaging risks handing the championship to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who starts Saturday’s sprint from pole ahead of both papaya cars.
“Max laughs his head off at things like that,” Glock said. “He takes it all in stride and thinks to himself, ‘Just argue, I’ll be right there if you crash into each other’s cars again.’ I have no idea what the point of this little drama is to the outside world.”
Former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone echoed that view in Bild.
“Max will be world champion again,” he said.
“All signs from McLaren point to them wanting Norris to win the title. That’s why he, in second place, and Piastri, the championship leader, are taking points away from each other. So Max will do it again.”
Red Bull’s Dr Helmut Marko meanwhile lamented that his team’s form revival may have come too late.
“We’ve been absolutely back at the front for a few races now,” he told Sky Deutschland. “Our resurgence seems to be coming a little too late, and I think we need help from McLaren.
“There are different interpretations of the Papaya Rules,” added the 82-year-old Austrian, “but they have clashed a few times this year. Piastri has gotten off lightly each time. Perhaps things will look different one day.”
As for Verstappen’s latest sprint pole, Marko added: “The decisive factor was that we found a risky, but very successful setup.”
Norris was more reserved: “It’s no surprise that we’ve been a bit slower than Red Bull lately, so we’re still quite happy.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES