Laurent Mekies Becomes Red Bull Team Principal as Mercedes Rules Out Verstappen Move
Red Bull Racing enters a new era as Laurent Mekies takes over as team principal, succeeding Christian Horner after more than two decades at the helm. Mekies, a highly experienced French engineer with a background at Ferrari, Minardi, and the FIA, steps into the leadership role during one of the most pivotal periods in the team's history.
Mekies' appointment follows a sudden decision by Red Bull’s senior management to part ways with Horner just days after the British Grand Prix. This change comes as the team tries to navigate through ongoing challenges both on and off the track, including a recent drop in competitiveness and uncertainty over Max Verstappen’s long-term future.
In his opening remarks, Mekies expressed gratitude for Horner’s two decades of leadership, acknowledging the solid foundation he inherits: “Together we will achieve great results, building on the incredible legacy left by Christian Horner during his two decades in charge.” Mekies has made clear that his first priority is to get to know the team, listen to personnel throughout the organization, and understand what makes Red Bull such a successful and innovative operation.
Mekies, who was promoted from Red Bull’s junior team Racing Bulls, is known for a collaborative and people-focused leadership style. With experience in top technical and management roles at Ferrari and a stint as the FIA’s safety director, his track record positions him as a steady hand during what many expect to be a turbulent transition.
The team now faces several immediate challenges: restoring lost performance, managing high-profile staff changes, and planning for the new power unit regulations coming in 2026. Mekies will also have to keep a close eye on Max Verstappen, whose future at Red Bull has been the subject of continuous speculation.
On the driver market, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff recently stated that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli are his clear first-choice line-up for 2026 and beyond, effectively ruling out an imminent switch for Max Verstappen. Rumours had swirled about Verstappen considering a Mercedes move—particularly after Red Bull’s management shakeup and upcoming engine regulation changes—but Wolff insisted Mercedes is committed to its young talents Russell and Antonelli.
While Verstappen remains contracted to Red Bull, his performance clauses mean speculation will likely persist, especially if the team’s form continues to fluctuate or if Verstappen falls outside the top three in the championship. For now, however, Red Bull’s focus is on stability and re-building under Mekies’ leadership.
The immediate test for Mekies comes at the Belgian Grand Prix, where he will lead Red Bull for the first time. The coming weeks will reveal whether Mekies’ approach can reinvigorate the team and maintain Red Bull’s position as a force at the front of Formula 1.