Liam Lawson Calls ‘Bullsh*t’ on British Anthem at McLaren Wins
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Liam Lawson criticizes McLaren’s use of the British national anthem after victories, calling it ‘bullsh*t’ and arguing that the New Zealand founder Bruce McLaren deserves the recognition. Get all the latest F1 news and insights.
Liam Lawson Criticizes McLaren’s Choice of British Anthem
Red Bull VCARB driver Liam Lawson has made waves by calling “bullsh*t” on the British national anthem being played after McLaren's victories in Formula 1. Lawson, a New Zealand driver, believes that McLaren’s success should be celebrated with New Zealand's anthem rather than the British one, given that the team was founded by the legendary Bruce McLaren, a New Zealand motorsport icon.
The Controversy Over National Anthems at F1 Podiums
At every Formula 1 race, the national anthem of the winning driver is played, followed by the anthem of the winning constructor. While this is a standard procedure, Lawson's comment highlights the unique historical connection between McLaren and New Zealand.
McLaren, one of the most iconic teams in Formula 1, was founded by Bruce McLaren in 1963. McLaren Racing made its debut at the Monaco Grand Prix in 1966. However, the team has always raced under a British licence, issued by the FIA, and continues to do so today, which is why the British national anthem is played after their victories.
McLaren's British Roots vs. Bruce McLaren's New Zealand Legacy
While McLaren is based in the UK and races under a British licence, Lawson believes the team should honour its New Zealand origins when celebrating race wins. “It makes no sense,” Lawson said during an appearance on the Red Flags podcast. “It’s a New Zealand team, the name is still McLaren. I have no idea why they’re playing the British anthem.”
Lawson is not the only driver who has raised questions about national anthems in F1. Red Bull, despite being based in the UK, plays the Austrian national anthem due to their Austrian licence. This shift from British to Austrian racing licence was completed in 2007, reflecting Red Bull’s identity as an Austrian-owned team. Other examples include Benetton, which switched from a British to an Italian licence in 1996, and Renault, which moved between French and British licences at various times throughout its history.
Bruce McLaren’s Legacy and New Zealand's Motorsport Contribution
Bruce McLaren’s tragic death in a car accident at Goodwood in 1970 left a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport. Despite the team's shift in ownership over the years, the name “McLaren” continues to symbolize the spirit and contributions of a New Zealand racing legend. Lawson’s frustration stems from the notion that McLaren, despite its British operations, should still pay tribute to its founder’s roots.
“It’s complete bullsh*t, to be honest,” Lawson added, explaining that the legacy of Bruce McLaren is significant for all New Zealanders. For Lawson, a driver now following in McLaren’s footsteps as New Zealand’s 10th Formula 1 representative, the issue is deeply personal, reflecting the pride of his home country in the sport.
McLaren’s Ownership and F1 Future
Today, McLaren Racing is owned primarily by McLaren Group, which is two-thirds controlled by Bahrain’s Mumtalakat Holding Company, a sovereign wealth fund. The remaining shares are held by the US-based MSP Sports Capital. While the ownership structure has changed over the years, the team’s strong historical connection to Bruce McLaren remains a key part of its identity.
With the ongoing evolution of the sport, including changes in ownership and racing licences, it remains to be seen whether McLaren will continue to race under a British licence or if they will explore options that may better align with the legacy of Bruce McLaren and the New Zealand motorsport community.
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