McLaren denies Trump F1 drive rumor: respect for office, no political stunt

McLaren has firmly rejected circulating rumors that Donald Trump will drive one of their F1 cars at the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin, clarifying the impracticality due to his size and their apolitical stance. This statement comes after Trump’s previous visit to their Miami garage, dispelling speculation and reaffirming McLaren’s focus on sport over politics.

Sources:
Daily Mail
Updated 3h ago
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Sources: Daily Mail
McLaren has officially denied rumors that former President Donald Trump would drive one of its Formula 1 cars at the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin. The speculation began circulating after Canal+ reported that Trump was set for an unprecedented drive at the Circuit of the Americas.

The team emphasized its non-political stance while expressing respect for the office of the President of the United States. A McLaren spokesperson stated, "McLaren is a non-political organisation however we recognise and respect the office of President of the United States..."

Questions also arose about the practicality of Trump fitting into a modern F1 car, given his stature of 6ft 2in and weighing 224 pounds, which is considerably larger than typical F1 drivers.

Trump had previously visited the McLaren garage in Miami last year, where he was given a tour but no indication was given about any driving plans. The rumor was widely regarded as a political stunt rather than a genuine sporting event.

This incident highlights the sensitivity of mixing high-profile political figures with elite motorsport events, with McLaren keen to avoid any perception of politicization. The team’s clear statement aims to maintain focus on the sport and its competitive integrity.

"McLaren has been forced to deny a bizarre report that will drive one of its Formula 1 cars in Austin next week," underscoring the unusual nature of the rumor.

Overall, McLaren’s response reflects a commitment to neutrality and respect for the presidency, while dismissing the rumor as unfounded and impractical.
Sources: Daily Mail
McLaren has denied rumors that former President Donald Trump will drive one of its Formula 1 cars at the United States Grand Prix in Austin, emphasizing respect for the presidential office and dismissing the idea as a political stunt. Questions also arose about Trump's fit in an F1 car.
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The Headline

McLaren denies Trump F1 drive rumors, respects presidency

Key Facts
  • Rumors circulated in the F1 paddock that Donald Trump would drive a McLaren F1 car at the United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas in Austin next week.Daily Mail
  • There were questions about Trump's size fitting in a modern F1 car, given his 6ft 2, 224-pound frame, and whether McLaren would want him to drive.Daily Mail
  • McLaren officially denied the claim, emphasizing their non-political stance but expressing respect for the office of the President of the United States.Daily Mail
McLaren is a non-political organisation however we recognise and respect the office of President of the United States...
McLaren Official Statement
Daily Mail
Key Stats at a Glance
Donald Trump's height
188cm
Daily Mail
Donald Trump's weight
224lb
Daily Mail
Background Context

Trump's prior visit to McLaren garage in Miami

Key Facts
  • Donald Trump was a guest of McLaren in Miami last year and was given a tour of their garage.Daily Mail
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