Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies has underscored the significant influence Max Verstappen exerts on the team’s performance, particularly during their recent resurgence in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Mekies’ comments followed Verstappen’s dominant performance at the Singapore Grand Prix.
Mekies highlighted Verstappen’s exceptional technical understanding, describing his ‘technical sensitivity’ as outstanding and ‘probably without any equivalent’. This capability allows the four-time World Champion to precisely identify performance limitations within the RB22 chassis.
The team principal further explained that Verstappen’s input is a ‘massive help’ for both chassis and power unit development. This feedback has been crucial in guiding Red Bull’s engineering direction, especially with the new Red Bull Ford Powertrains unit.
Red Bull’s Technical Director Pierre Waché has also acknowledged Verstappen’s unique ability to detect issues through the steering wheel that often do not appear in simulation data. This highlights the driver’s unparalleled feel for the car.
The 2026 season began with challenges for Red Bull under the new technical regulations, and the RB22 initially struggled for consistent pace. Verstappen himself had been vocal about the car’s handling characteristics early in the year.
However, the team has executed a notable turnaround in recent rounds. Verstappen secured back-to-back victories in Malaysia and Singapore, alongside pole positions in both the Sprint and Grand Prix at Marina Bay.
Despite this improved form, Red Bull has confirmed that the recent upgrade package introduced in Baku is likely their last significant development for the RB22 this season. Resources are now largely focused on the 2027 car.
Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull remains long-term, having extended his contract in August until at least 2030. This move solidified his future with the Milton Keynes squad amidst earlier speculation regarding potential transfers.
Laurent Mekies assumed the role of Red Bull Team Principal and CEO midway through the 2025 season, succeeding Christian Horner. He leads the team alongside Technical Director Pierre Waché.
The current Red Bull driver lineup for 2026 features Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, with Yuki Tsunoda serving as the test and reserve driver.
‘His input is massive,’ Mekies stated after the Singapore Grand Prix. ‘His technical sensitivity is outstanding, probably without any equivalent and therefore yes, he has that capability to pinpoint what is limiting performance.’
Mekies added that while Verstappen can identify problems with precision, finding immediate solutions remains the responsibility of the engineering team. This collaborative approach is central to Red Bull’s development strategy.
