On May 4, 2025, McLaren team principal Zak Brown caused a shockwave in the Formula 1 world with an explosive accusation against Max Verstappen, just before the Miami Grand Prix. After Verstappen’s surprising pole position in qualifying, Brown accused the Dutch driver of “cheating,” pointing to alleged irregularities in the setup of Red Bull’s RB21. The controversy intensified further with an unexpected response from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who dismissed the allegations as “baseless” and defended the integrity of the sport.
The qualifying session in Miami was a masterpiece from Verstappen. Despite a difficult sprint race, in which he finished fourth after an incident in the pit lane and a time penalty, he delivered a brilliant lap in Q3. He defeated Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who appeared faster throughout the weekend with McLaren. Verstappen’s pole was attributed to an improved rear wing setup and optimal energy deployment, but Brown questioned the legality of this. In a press moment, he stated: “That pole smells like cheating. Red Bull is pushing the boundaries of the regulations too far.” He specifically pointed to the flexibility of the rear wing, a theme that had already caused controversy in 2025, even surrounding McLaren itself.
Brown’s accusation sparked a media storm. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner responded furiously, calling Brown’s words “slanderous” and “a desperate attempt to mask McLaren’s own failures.” He emphasized that the RB21 had been thoroughly inspected by the FIA after qualifying and was found to be fully legal. Social media exploded with reactions, as Verstappen and McLaren fans clashed fiercely. Hashtags like #FIAFairness and #McLarenCheat trended, with some questioning Brown’s timing, given McLaren’s previous controversies surrounding their own rear wing in Japan.
The FIA, under the leadership of Ben Sulayem, responded unusually quickly. In an official statement, he said: “Accusations of cheating without evidence undermine the sport. Verstappen’s pole is well deserved, and the RB21 complies with all regulations.” This strong support for Verstappen surprised many, given Ben Sulayem’s previous tensions with the Dutch driver, such as the controversial penalty in Jeddah for an incident with Piastri. Some analysts suggested that Ben Sulayem was reaffirming his authority after criticism over inconsistent FIA decisions.
The controversy comes at a tense moment in the championship. Verstappen is only twelve points behind leader Piastri and ten points behind Norris, while McLaren has surpassed Red Bull in the constructors’ championship. Brown’s statement seems partly a strategic move to put pressure on Red Bull, but the risk of backlash is high. Earlier in the season, McLaren itself was investigated for a flexible rear wing, which led to an adjustment of their “mini-DRS” after the Japanese Grand Prix. This makes Brown’s accusation hypocritical in the eyes of Red Bull fans, who point to the “pot-kettle” dynamic.
Verstappen himself remained calm. “I let my laps speak for themselves,” he said after qualifying, focusing on the race and his new role as the father of daughter Lily. His calm demeanor contrasted with the escalating war of words between Brown and Horner. Norris, although loyal to McLaren, distanced himself from Brown’s harsh words and said: “I focus on racing, not on arguments.” Piastri mostly remained silent, but his pole position in Bahrain earlier this year proves McLaren’s speed.
The Miami Grand Prix promises to be an explosive race, both on and off the track. Verstappen’s pole gives him an advantage, but McLaren’s speed in long runs makes them the favorites. The controversy surrounding Brown’s accusation could affect the dynamics, with additional FIA checks on both teams likely. Ben Sulayem’s unexpected support for Verstappen has further heightened tensions with McLaren, and many are wondering if this will impact the relationship between the FIA and the British team. As the lights go out tomorrow, Formula 1 remains a battleground of speed, strategy, and sharp words. Will Verstappen capitalize on his pole, or will McLaren strike back? Miami is holding its breath.
