Zak Brown Admits McLaren Could Develop Own Power Unit And End Mercedes Partnership

McLaren boss Zak Brown has suggested the Woking team could one day build its own Formula 1 power unit, potentially ending its relationship with Mercedes.
Brown was speaking after attending the Indy 500 last weekend rather than the Canadian Grand Prix, where he addressed the topic of a potential engine change in 2031.
McLaren currently operates as one of six customer teams on the grid, using Mercedes engines under a contract that runs until at least 2030.
The team has voiced frustrations about the complexity of the current hybrid systems, which make it difficult for customer teams to compete against factory squads.
Engine manufacturers are subject to a separate annual budget cap of $130 million, adding further financial dimension to the debate around power unit development.
Brown made clear that any move toward an in-house engine would depend on whether the costs could be kept at a manageable level for the team.
“If a financially viable engine formula is introduced, we would definitely consider developing our own power unit and technology,” he told Sports Business Journal.
Despite raising the possibility, Brown was careful to stress that McLaren remains satisfied with its current arrangement and has not made any firm decision to leave.
“We’re extremely happy with Mercedes. If a financially sensible option comes our way, we’ll take a closer look,” he added.
According to the Concorde Agreement, brand-new engines could debut as early as 2031, with manufacturers reportedly showing support for a return to V8 power running on sustainable fuels.
The new engine regulations that came into full effect earlier this year have drawn considerable criticism from both fans and drivers across the paddock.
Formula 1 has tentatively agreed to a 2027 change that would shift the power balance to a 60/40 split in favour of the combustion engine, though it requires backing from at least four of the five current manufacturers.
The ongoing disputes over those changes have even prompted Max Verstappen to reiterate an earlier threat to leave the sport entirely.
McLaren currently sit third in the constructors’ championship, 113 points behind leaders Mercedes, as the team navigates a difficult stretch of the season.
Despite the regulation controversies, Brown expressed strong confidence in Formula 1’s broader appeal and its ability to captivate audiences around the world.
“Racing is fantastic,” Brown said. “Even if you don’t follow the drivers closely, watching the race on TV is an absolute thrill.”
“We saw it in Miami. Drivers are getting more accustomed to the changes and the rules are continually being refined,” he continued.
“While we might not hit the perfect balance, racing has always involved managing complex rules, whether it’s tire or battery management now. It’s a transition, but ultimately, racing will prevail, even under a microscope.”
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