McLaren's CEO Zak Brown has expressed surprise at the team's competitive performance, now only 42 points behind Red Bull in the constructors' championship as the season nears its conclusion. Brown acknowledges that McLaren did not expect to be in such a strong position so soon, with both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri achieving their first grand prix wins this season. Meanwhile, Red Bull's drivers, particularly Sergio Perez, have struggled with consistency, prompting criticism from within the team about their lack of performance. Former F1 team boss Eddie Jordan highlighted the tension between Norris and Piastri regarding the number one driver debate, hinting at potential challenges for McLaren as the season progresses. Despite Red Bull's recent difficulties, their technical director Pierre Wache admitted he anticipated stronger competition sooner. Brown is optimistic about McLaren's trajectory, aiming for a top position as they head into the final races of the season.