Mekies backs Verstappen to stay in F1, optimistic on engine regulation deal

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has moved to calm growing speculation about Max Verstappen's F1 future, expressing optimism that engine manufacturers will reach an agreement on the proposed 2027 regulation changes. The Dutch driver has openly criticized the current 50/50 power split and threatened to walk away if adjustments are not made.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's future is tightly linked to the engine regulation debate. If manufacturers fail to agree on a 60/40 shift favoring the internal combustion engine, the four-time champion could leave the sport — a scenario the paddock is desperate to avoid.

The details:

• Mekies' stance: Speaking after the Canadian Grand Prix, Mekies told media including GPblog: "I'm optimistic we will find the right solutions… a majority of people agreeing on improving the race."
• Unity over self-interest: He argued that stakeholders will eventually prioritize the sport's health over individual competitiveness: "At some stage we will all put aside what we feel it may or may not do to our relative competitiveness."
• Honda's delay: The Japanese manufacturer has refused to commit to the 2027 timeline, leaving the required four-out-of-six manufacturer approval in doubt. Only Mercedes and Red Bull currently support an early introduction.
• Verstappen's threat: The Dutchman has admitted it would be "unworkable" to continue under the current 50/50 regulations beyond 2026, adding urgency to the negotiations.

What's next:

The FIA announced an 'in principle' agreement after Miami, but the timing remains unresolved. Without a consensus, the 2027 season could face the same battery-recharge issues that drivers currently detest. Mekies' optimism suggests a deal is likely, but Honda's reluctance keeps the grid on edge.