The departure of Christian Horner from Red Bull Racing has cast a spotlight on the team’s future, particularly regarding the crucial decision of star driver Max Verstappen. With Laurent Mekies set to take the helm as team principal, the question on everyone’s mind is whether this significant change will persuade Verstappen, whose contract extends to 2028, to remain with the team, or if his concerns about the car’s performance and the team’s internal dynamics will lead him elsewhere, potentially to rivals like Mercedes.
Verstappen’s future at Red Bull appears to be at a crossroads. While he has a long-term contract, reports suggest his camp believes there are avenues to exit if he chooses. The underlying tensions, including Verstappen’s discomfort with the sexual harassment allegations against Horner (despite Horner’s exoneration in internal investigations) and his father Jos Verstappen’s public disapproval of Horner, have created an environment of instability. Horner’s exit may alleviate some of these personal and public relations issues, but it does not erase deeper concerns about the team’s performance trajectory.
The team’s once-dominant form has noticeably waned. Red Bull, who masterfully navigated the 2022 regulation changes, now find themselves outpaced by McLaren, who have made significant strides since their Miami Grand Prix upgrade last season. This shift in performance, coupled with the departure of key technical personnel like Adrian Newey, raises questions about Red Bull’s ability to adapt and compete effectively under the current and upcoming regulations, especially with the new engine regulations for 2026 on the horizon. The perceived lead of Mercedes in developing the new power units adds another layer of concern for the Verstappen camp.
Furthermore, Red Bull has struggled to field a competitive second driver capable of consistently challenging at the front. Max Verstappen’s unique driving style, which demands a sharp turn-in and a degree of rear instability he can expertly manage, has proven difficult for his teammates to replicate. This has led to a situation where, despite Verstappen’s brilliance, the team may be losing out on valuable constructors’ championship points. The car’s unpredictable aerodynamic balance, making it difficult to operate within its optimal “window,” further exacerbates this issue, hindering overall performance and driver confidence.
Laurent Mekies, a seasoned engineer with over two decades of Formula 1 experience, including stints with the FIA and Ferrari, represents a significant shift in leadership style from the more assertive Christian Horner. Mekies is known for his more understated, collaborative approach, which is expected to alter Red Bull’s public image and internal culture. His immediate priorities include retaining Verstappen, addressing the car’s aerodynamic and performance deficiencies, and stemming the tide of experienced personnel leaving the team. The exodus of key figures like Rob Marshall, Jonathan Wheatley, and Will Courtenay, the latter moving to McLaren, highlights a critical need for stabilization and a potential reset in the team’s design philosophy and recruitment strategy.
Mekies’ leadership presents an opportunity for Red Bull to rebuild trust and confidence within the team, moving away from an environment reportedly marked by paranoia and media scrutiny. His ability to navigate these challenges, secure Verstappen’s commitment, and restore the team to its winning ways will be the ultimate test of his tenure.