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Zak Brown Mocks “Tire Water” Concept Linked to MCL39 Tyre Strategy
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has taken a cheeky swipe at recent rumors suggesting the team’s latest tire strategy—nicknamed “tire water”—played a role in the MCL39’s recent performance gains. The term, which emerged from fan speculation and paddock whispers, refers to a rumored hydration-based temperature control trick, supposedly used to optimize tire grip. Brown, however, wasn’t having any of it.
Speaking with reporters after the MCL39’s strong showing at the latest Grand Prix, Brown laughed off the idea. “Tire water? What is this, Formula Spa?” he joked. “Next thing you know, they’ll say we’re sprinkling holy water on the rubber before a lap.”
The American boss, known for his dry humor and media-savvy style, made it clear that McLaren’s recent improvements come down to solid engineering—not pseudoscience. “Our gains are from hard work in the wind tunnel, smarter setups, and great work from Lando and Oscar. Not some miracle liquid.”
Still, the “tire water” theory caught fire online, especially after a few suspicious-looking pit moments were caught on camera. Some fans believed crew members were applying a fluid to the tires that seemed unconventional. Brown dismissed it as “normal cooling procedures blown out of proportion.”
“We’re not magicians,” he said, “just a team doing our job properly—and maybe beating a few folks who don’t like that.”
The playful jab adds to Brown’s growing reputation for being outspoken and unafraid to troll rivals or online speculation. Whether or not the “tire water” theory dies out, one thing’s for certain: McLaren’s recent form is turning heads—and not because of some mystery fluid. With momentum building, the team is looking to solidify its place as a true contender as the season heats up.