Red Bull's Mekies: Verstappen is the team's 'best sensor' and 'most expensive' asset

Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies has hailed Max Verstappen as the team's "best sensor" in the car, a crucial element in their 2025 championship challenge. The four-time world champion's unparalleled technical feedback and relentless dedication were highlighted as key factors in the team's mid-season turnaround, culminating in a near-miss for the constructors' title.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's value extends far beyond his driving talent. In an era where data is king, his ability to translate car feel into actionable technical insights provides Red Bull with a competitive edge that cannot be replicated by hardware alone. His role as a development driver is as critical as his performance on Sunday, fundamentally shaping the team's engineering direction.

The details:

• Mekies, who took over mid-season, stated that working directly with Verstappen "still blows you away," exceeding even his high expectations.
• The core of Verstappen's contribution is his "quality of technical feedback and the level of sensitivity," with Mekies joking he is "the best sensor we have in the car. Arguably also the most expensive."
• Beyond the Steering Wheel: His immersion in motorsport is total. Between F1 races, he engages in sim racing and competes in GT3 cars on free weekends, constantly seeking ways to refine his craft and prepare.
• Leadership in Crisis: Mekies emphasized Verstappen's pivotal role during the team's difficult mid-2025 period, noting he fully immersed himself in the project to help find solutions and align the team's direction, rather than criticizing from the sidelines.

The big picture:

Verstappen's 2025 season, which he himself called his best in F1, showcased a driver at the peak of his abilities both on and off the track. His synergy with the engineering team, especially under new leadership, demonstrates a mature partnership that transforms raw speed into sustained technical development. This holistic approach is what separates top drivers from true legends who define an era for their team.

What's next:

With the RB22 in development, Verstappen's feedback will be instrumental in refining the 2026 challenger. His unique position as the team's primary development tool ensures Red Bull's car philosophy continues to be built around his driving style and insights. As Mekies settles into his role, this driver-team principal dynamic will be central to mounting a full title assault on both championships next season.