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McLaren CEO Protests Mercedes' Potential Stake in Alpine

Autosport F1 News •
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McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has formally raised objections with the FIA regarding the potential for Mercedes-Benz to acquire a shareholding in a second Formula 1 team, specifically referencing ongoing discussions involving Alpine. Brown has reportedly dispatched a six-page letter to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to articulate his concerns about expanding team partnerships.

Brown's primary apprehension centers on the precedent that such a dual-ownership structure would set across the grid. While acknowledging the historical context of the Racing Bulls arrangement, which is tolerated due to its longevity dating back two decades, he is firmly against normalizing this model for future entries or stake acquisitions.

This intervention signals a strong stance from McLaren against perceived conflicts of interest or advantages that could arise if a major manufacturer controlled stakes in multiple competitors. The CEO is advocating for strict adherence to regulations that prevent the proliferation of such multi-team ownership arrangements in the medium to long term future of the sport.

This action places the issue of team governance and ownership structures squarely on the agenda for the sport's governing body, challenging the status quo established by existing partnerships.