Mercedes Junior Programme Chief Gwen Lagrue Set to Join Red Bull

Gwen Lagrue, who has led Mercedes' junior driver programme since 2016 and played a pivotal role in nurturing George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, is set to join Red Bull in a similar capacity. The move marks a major shift in the F1 driver development landscape, with one of the sport's top talent scouts crossing to a rival outfit.

Why it matters:

Mercedes' young driver pipeline has been one of the grid's most productive, directly supplying its works team with Russell and Antonelli. Losing Lagrue weakens that pipeline while strengthening Red Bull, which is reshaping its junior setup after Helmut Marko's 25-year tenure. For a team whose success depends on a steady flow of talent, this is a strategic coup.

The details:

• Lagrue joined Mercedes in 2016 after running Lotus's junior programme, where he brought in Esteban Ocon and Alex Albon.
• His first task at Brackley was convincing Russell to turn down a BMW DTM deal and commit to Mercedes' single-seater ladder, a move that proved foundational for the British driver's career.
• He identified Antonelli at age 11, pushing through internal skepticism to secure him a spot in the programme.
• Red Bull is now entrusting its resources, including two F1 seats at Racing Bulls, to one of the paddock's most respected scouts.

What's next:

While no official start date is confirmed, Lagrue's arrival signals Red Bull's intent to professionalize its junior ranks. The team has produced world champions but faced leaner spells recently. With Lagrue at the helm, Red Bull is betting on proven expertise to ensure its next generation can challenge at the front.