Overview

• Palou attended an initial hearing on Monday in London, where his legal team rejected that he owes compensation and described McLaren’s demand as exaggerated.
• Reports differ on the sum sought, with figures ranging from about $33 million to roughly $20 million, as McLaren cites sporting and commercial losses.
• The dispute stems from a 2022 arrangement to place Palou with Arrow McLaren that clashed with Chip Ganassi Racing’s option and a later mediation that envisioned a 2024 move.
• Palou cut ties with McLaren in mid‑2023, saying the team failed to provide a promised route to a full‑time Formula 1 race seat, and he remained with Chip Ganassi.
• The case is set to continue for weeks, with testimony anticipated from key figures including McLaren CEO Zak Brown, according to press reports.