McLaren CEO Zak Brown recently took a jab at his former F1 rival, Christian Horner, in a new interview with The Telegraph. Having known him for three decades now, both have exchanged quite a few heated words along the way. However, Brown revealed that this year their things were different as their jabs went a little too far.
However, he blamed Horner for the change in their relationship, claiming it was all a result of the fame he got from Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive.
I’ve known Christian for 30-plus years. We used to get on. His results are amazing. So, hats off. But he’s changed. I think the Drive to Survive fame, the money, the glory, all got a bit much.
He also talked about the time when Horner filed a formal complaint at the end of the 2024 season, claiming that the Papaya were injecting their tyres with water.
He made allegations towards our team. I can’t imagine he believed them. It was simply intended to disrupt us. Regardless of legality, everyone in the sport knows you wouldn’t do that for technical reasons.
However, after an investigation by the FIA, McLaren was found innocent. Well, while Brown’s comments are making quite a buzz, Horner is yet to respond to his former sparring partner’s crude remarks.
Why Did Christian Horner Leave Red Bull?
Christian Horner left Red Bull in July 2025 after over 20 years as the team’s principal, a shock decision that came amid Red Bull’s waning performance and internal tensions (via The Guardian).
Reportedly, his ousting was influenced by more than just on-track issues: there was reportedly a power struggle with senior management, disagreements over the direction of Red Bull’s future, and pressure tied to leadership and performance.
Following his removal, he formally departed from Red Bull in September 2025. Reportedly, he was given a massive payout, worth 60m euros / £52m, following his dismissal (via BBC). The shocking news came after his s*xual harassment scandal, the news of which broke out in February 2024. He was cleared of the claims later on.
He said goodbye to fans in an Instagram post on July 10, expressing his gratitude and privilege in leading the team all these years. In his emotional farewell, he reflected on the “special journey” of building Red Bull into an F1 powerhouse, expressing pride in the team’s numerous world championships (via The Independent).
Will There Be A Season 8 of Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive?
There is a possibility that there might be another season of Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive, but so far, there hasn’t been any official confirmation.
However, as What’s on Netflix reports, the series has reportedly been renewed for an eighth season. Several production members’ public profiles list Season 8, and Netflix cameras were reportedly spotted at F1 events during the 2025 season.
The traditional release pattern for Drive to Survive is just before the new F1 season begins. Past seasons have dropped in late February or early March. So, we can expect a renewal announcement before that, with a release date likely to be in February or March next year.
Hence, given the strong track record, consistent release rhythm, and behind-the-scenes signs of filming, Season 8 is very likely to happen.
What are your thoughts about McLaren CEO Zak Brown’s latest comments and the possibility of an eighth season of Drive to Survive? Let us know in the comments below.
Seasons 1 to 7 of Drive to Survive are available for streaming on Netflix.
