Laurent Mekies on Max Verstappen's 'Extraordinary' Off-Track Commitment

Red Bull F1 chief Laurent Mekies, who recently joined the team, shares his 'biggest surprise' about working with four-time world champion Max Verstappen: his unparalleled dedication and extraordinary work ethic off the track. Mekies highlights Verstappen's deep involvement in car development and his precise communication skills as key assets for the team, solidifying his role as central to Red Bull's success.

Why it matters:

Max Verstappen's dominance on the track is well-documented, but Mekies's insights reveal a crucial, often unseen, aspect of his championship-winning formula: an intense, relentless commitment that extends far beyond the cockpit. This deep integration and leadership in car development are vital for Red Bull, especially as they navigate competitive seasons and push for continuous improvement.

The Details:

• Beyond the Car: Mekies, having admired Verstappen from afar, was most struck by the Dutchman's intensity and commitment outside the car. He describes Verstappen as "as extraordinary, if not more extraordinary, out of the car than in the car."
• Relentless Work Ethic: Verstappen's dedication is evident in his constant training, whether on the simulator or racing other cars across Europe. "You call him at any time, he will be on this simulator training. And if he's not in the simulator, he's racing with another car somewhere in Europe," Mekies stated on the 'Securing the Win' podcast.
• Deep Understanding of Team Dynamics: Verstappen possesses a profound grasp of the complexities involved in building a fast car. He effectively guides the team towards optimal solutions, demonstrating an understanding beyond just driving skill.
• Driving Car Development: According to Mekies, Verstappen is not just a driver; he is "completely embedded in the team" and "driving the car development" for current and future seasons. This close relationship is a "huge, huge asset" for Red Bull.
• Precise Communication: Verstappen has a unique ability to communicate effectively with various team members, choosing the right words to help each person perform at their best, thereby optimizing overall car performance.

The Big Picture:

Verstappen's pivotal role in Red Bull's recent resurgence, including three wins in the last four races, underscores his influence. The team has adapted its setup philosophy to better align with driver feedback, introducing tweaked floor designs and front wings. While Mekies downplays his own role, improvements in engineering communication are also understood to have contributed.

What's next:

Verstappen's continued deep engagement with the team's technical development and his unwavering commitment off-track will be crucial for Red Bull's sustained success. His ability to translate on-track feel into actionable development insights ensures that the team remains at the forefront of innovation and performance in Formula 1.