P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren learnt the verdict into its case against former driver Alex Palou, with a multi-million decision.
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has stated that the UK High Court’s ruling in the team’s legal battle against Alex Palou was “entirely appropriate.”
The lawsuit stemmed from Palou breaking his contract to drive for McLaren in IndyCar in 2023 after realizing he would not be getting an F1 race seat in 2024, despite believing otherwise following discussions with Brown.
McLaren sought nearly $20 million in damages, with the trial held in London’s High Court in October 2025, attended by RacingNews365.
The verdict, delivered by Mr Justice Picken, dismissed McLaren’s claims for loss of F1 earnings but awarded the team over $10 million for driver salary, loss of IndyCar revenue, and sponsor losses.
An additional claim of $2-2.5 million for a sponsor issue remains pending, potentially bringing the total compensation to $12.6 million, more than half of McLaren’s initial claim.
In response to the ruling, Brown expressed satisfaction, emphasizing that McLaren had fulfilled all contractual obligations, and highlighted the significant impact of Palou’s breach on the team’s business.
