McLaren’s frontline is in holiday mode. After a bittersweet Belgian GP, a break was much needed. Lando Norris finished P6 in Belgium, later promoting to P5 after George Russell’s disqualification. Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri’s P2 finish brought some crucial points for the team. While Norris wasn’t too impressive in his second home race, the Aussie did a better job. Amidst these highs and lows, the ongoing season has dispersed for a summer break.

Interestingly, McLaren’s boss Zak Brown, and Norris boarded a private jet together in Belgium after leaving the circuit. Typically, Norris shares a return flight with Max Verstappen, but this time, there was a change in plans. It’s not unusual for drivers to travel with their bosses, but what made this instance intriguing was the unexpected company they had. Slovenian ice hockey icon Anze Kopitar accompanied the Papaya duo in the private jet.

For those who don’t know, Anze Kopitar was a part of the Slovene Hockey team that created history in the 2014 Winter Olympics. However, he wasn’t playing on the day his team made history. Despite being Slovenia’s only NHL star, Kopitar’s absence didn’t affect his team’s morale. Kopitar’s motivation was enough for the team to fight. Ultimately, Slovenia made history by defeating Slovakia 3-1 in their first Winter Olympics appearance.

Given Zak Brown is a big fan of the NHL, this surprise visit by Anze Kopitar wouldn’t be an actual surprise. After all, the boss could discuss his passion for ice hockey with someone! Moreover, Brown often visits the NHL Hall of Fame whenever he’s in Toronto. And this time was no different, as Lando Norris’ boss was spotted in his favorite place in Canada.

Lando Norris’ boss visits the NHL Hall of Fame in Toronto

Zak Brown is a known Teemu Selanne fan. The Finnish legend had taken ice hockey to a stratospheric level. During his stint with the Anaheim Ducks, he reached new heights when he won the Stanley Cup. Thus adding, his name to the NHL Hall of Fame. Selanne is a household name in the world of ice hockey. Lando Norris and Co., revere champions. Given McLaren‘s history in F1, where they’ve produced champions like Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna, Zak Brown’s inclination towards Teemu Selanne or Anze Kopitar is no surprise.

In his recent visit to Toronto, Brown visited the NHL Hall of Fame as expected. Brown shared this on his social media with the caption: “Visiting the @NHL Hockey Hall Of Fame is a favorite stop of mine while in Toronto. It’s always special to see the accomplishments of legends of the sport like @waynegretzky, @therealmarkmessier, @sel8nneteemu and others, and the Stanley Cup is one of the best trophies in sports.” He went around exploring the place and sharing insights on Wayne Gretzky and Teemu Selanne. The McLaren CEO’s face was radiating with delight as he stood in the presence of ice hockey’s history.

While their side quests continue throughout the summer break, Lando Norris and the squad would be eager to return to F1. Chasing their true passion in motorsport is of utmost importance, although a good respite amidst the energy of these legends isn’t a bad idea. As Zak Brown’s army gets ready to brew strategies soon and try their best to take Zandvoort post-break, more action is yet to come.