From game show winner to McLaren racing CEO: How $3,050 changed Zak Brown’s life

A California teenager who won $3,050 on a television game show in 1984 used the money to buy a go-kart and racing lessons, setting him on a path that would eventually make him CEO of McLaren Racing.

Zak Brown, who has led McLaren Racing since 2018, revealed that his motorsport journey began after appearing on a special “Teen Week” episode of Wheel of Fortune when he was just 13 years old.

The young contestant correctly identified “Wild Bill Hickok” to secure the prize package, which included cash, a television, a bicycle, and watches worth $1,800.

“I had no idea who this Wild Bill someone is,” Brown said in a 2025 ESPN interview. “K is a pretty popular letter, so I went with K.”

Investing Early in a Motorsports Career

Rather than keeping the luxury prizes, Brown chose a different path. “I went and sold the watches at a pawn shop,” Brown recalled. “I then went and paid for racing school.”

The remaining money was used to purchase a go-kart, a decision that would shape his future.

The investment paid off quickly. Between 1986 and 1990, Brown won 22 International Kart Federation races, helping establish his reputation in competitive racing.

He later competed in Formula Ford 1600, North America’s Toyota Atlantic Series, and the 1994 British Formula Three Championships.

Building a Motorsports Business Empire

As his driving career evolved, Brown expanded into the business side of racing. In the 2000s, he founded businesses including United Autosports, strengthening his presence within the global motorsports business sector.

His relationship with McLaren Racing began in 2016 when he joined the organization as an executive director. Two years later, he was appointed CEO.

Since taking the role, Brown has overseen a major transformation of the team, helping strengthen its position in international motorsport.

Recognition Beyond the Track

Brown’s leadership has earned recognition beyond racing.

In 2025, Time Magazine honored him with a TIME100 Impact Award. He has also been recognized by publications including The Financial Times, Sport Business Journal, and PROMO Magazine among influential figures in business and sports.

For Brown, the journey from game show contestant to CEO demonstrates how one early opportunity, combined with determination and smart decisions, can create a remarkable career.

Read also: 20 rare McLarens from Mansour Ojjeh’s collection worth set to hit the market