Zak Brown urges FIA to ban common team ownership in Formula 1

McLaren CEO Zak Brown has sent a letter to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, pushing for formal discussions to ban common team ownership and strategic alliances in Formula 1. Brown argues that such structures compromise sporting integrity and fairness, urging the FIA to prohibit any future co-ownership arrangements and tighten regulations on existing alliances.

Why it matters:

Brown's move comes amid growing concern over the potential for A/B team dynamics to distort competition. With Mercedes exploring a 24% stake in Alpine – and Christian Horner also reportedly in the race – the issue has resurfaced. Red Bull already owns two teams (Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls), grandfathered into the sport. Brown warns that unless addressed, the sport risks losing credibility and competitive balance.

The details:

• Brown's letter cites examples of perceived aligned interests: a Racing Bulls driver taking a fastest lap point away from McLaren to help Red Bull's Max Verstappen in 2024, IP transfers, and staff moving between affiliated teams without lengthy gardening leave.
• Mercedes-Alpine link: If successful, Mercedes would strengthen ties with Alpine, which already uses Mercedes power units. Brown views this as a step toward a 'satellite team' model.
• Red Bull's twin teams: Brown accepts the grandfathering but insists future ownership structures must be prohibited to prevent unfair advantages in sporting, financial, and technical areas.
• FIA President's stance: Ben Sulayem told media in Miami he is “not with it 100%” regarding multi-team ownership, calling it “not the right way” and confirming the FIA is investigating the issue.
• Brown's broader call: He likened it to a Premier League match where one team could afford to lose. He insists all 10 teams should compete as independently as possible, with engine supply being the limit of collaboration.

What's next:

The FIA has yet to formally respond, but Ben Sulayem's comments suggest openness to reform. A ban on future common ownership would reshape the grid, affecting not only Mercedes-Alpine talks but also any potential new entrants. Brown's push – backed by examples and a clear timeline – pressures the FIA to act before the situation escalates, with potential rule changes as early as the next World Motor Sport Council meeting.