Kiwi F1 driver Liam Lawson has criticized McLaren for playing the UK national anthem, “God Save the King”, following their race victories, pointing out the irony that the team was founded by New Zealand motorsport legend Bruce McLaren.
Lawson’s Controversial Comments About McLaren’s Anthem Tradition
McLaren, one of the most successful teams in Formula 1, has a deep history rooted in the UK, but its origins lie in New Zealand. Bruce McLaren, a four-time Grand Prix winner, founded the team in 1963, making it a New Zealand team at its core. However, despite this heritage, McLaren has continued to play the British anthem after every race victory, sparking controversy, especially from Lawson, who replaced Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull Racing during the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix.
Lawson shared his frustration on the Red Flags podcast, saying:
“It’s completely bullst, that’s what it is. Honestly! Especially if you’re from New Zealand… because Bruce McLaren is an absolute legend.”**
McLaren’s UK National Anthem Tradition
McLaren continues to play “God Save the King” after their victories because the team races under a British license, which has been the case since its inception. Despite this, Lawson believes the tradition undermines the legacy of the team’s founder and his New Zealand roots. Lawson made a comparison to Red Bull, who plays the Austrian national anthem despite the team being based in the UK.
McLaren’s New Zealand Legacy
While McLaren’s racing license is British, the team still embraces its New Zealand heritage. The iconic papaya color scheme and the Kiwi bird featured in their original logo serve as constant reminders of their founder’s roots. Bruce McLaren was not only a talented driver but also a designer and engineer, and his legacy is deeply tied to both New Zealand and the world of motorsport.
Bruce tragically died in a testing accident in 1970, but his impact on motorsport remains significant. McLaren has claimed 188 Formula 1 race wins, 12 drivers’ championships, and 8 constructors’ championships, making them one of the most successful teams in F1 history.
McLaren’s National Anthem Debate: A Symbol of F1 Identity
The debate surrounding McLaren’s choice of national anthem underscores the complexity of team identity in Formula 1, where origins, licenses, and historical legacies collide. While McLaren’s success on the track is undisputed, the choice to honor the UK with its national anthem raises questions about the team’s true national identity—something Liam Lawson is vocal about, given his New Zealand ties and the legacy of Bruce McLaren.
Lawson’s Passion for McLaren’s True Legacy
For Lawson, the issue isn’t just about a song—it’s about honoring the New Zealand roots that are deeply intertwined with McLaren’s history. As the debate continues, fans and industry figures alike are left to ponder how teams balance their national identities with their global presence in the world of Formula 1.
