Laurent Mekies downplays Max Verstappen exit talk, focuses on Red Bull improvements

Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies has dismissed the narrative that Max Verstappen's public criticism of F1's 2026 regulations dominates their conversations, stating that discussions about a potential exit constitute just "one per cent" of their dialogue. Instead, Mekies emphasizes that the overwhelming focus with the four-time World Champion is on improving the uncompetitive RB22 car to return to the front of the grid.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's vocal dissatisfaction with the new engine formula's driving style has sparked intense speculation about his future in the sport, despite a contract through 2028. Mekies's comments aim to reframe the internal narrative from one of driver discontent to a unified team effort to solve performance issues, which is critical for maintaining stability and morale within the championship-winning organization during a difficult transition period.

The details:

• The 2026 power unit regulations have introduced significant challenges, with all manufacturers facing reliability glitches. Issues range from Honda's battery vibrations to electrical problems that caused a double DNS for McLaren in China.
• The new formula mandates heavy energy harvesting, forcing drivers to lift and coast on straights or use "super clipping"—siphoning power from the combustion engine to the battery—instead of driving flat-out.
• Verstappen has been openly critical, calling the style "anti-racing" and "not fun," and has suggested this season could be his last if the racing does not improve.
• Mekies counters that internal discussions are almost entirely performance-focused: "We are having zero discussions about the other aspects... So honestly, that's 1% of our discussions right now."
• The team principal acknowledges the substantial performance gap to leaders Mercedes and stresses the need to give Verstappen a car he can push to its limits.

What's next:

The upcoming five-week break before the Miami Grand Prix provides a crucial development window for Red Bull and other struggling teams.

• Mekies is confident Red Bull will use this time to analyze data and bring improvements to Miami, though he cautions against expecting a "miracle" to close the entire gap immediately.
• The broader F1 community, including teams and the FIA, is set to meet during the break to discuss potential tweaks to the 2026 regulations in response to widespread driver feedback.
• The Miami GP is anticipated to be the first major salvo in the development war, with some teams rumored to be bringing significant upgrades. Red Bull's progress there will be the first real indicator of whether they are on the correct path to recovery.