Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Racing Team Principal, has directly refuted claims made by Nico Rosberg regarding Max Verstappen’s recently extended contract. Speaking at the Dutch Grand Prix, Mekies addressed Rosberg’s assertions concerning Verstappen’s alleged ‘$80 million’ annual salary and the influence of Mekies’ leadership culture on the driver’s commitment.
Verstappen officially signed a new contract with Red Bull Racing, extending his tenure with the team until the conclusion of the 2030 Formula 1 season. This significant announcement was made in August 2026, just ahead of his home Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort.
Rosberg, a Sky F1 pundit, questioned Mekies directly about an ‘$80 million’ pay packet for Verstappen. Mekies explicitly stated that both of Rosberg’s claims were inaccurate. While official salary figures remain undisclosed, reports suggest Verstappen’s new deal could see his annual earnings, including performance bonuses, surpass $100 million from 2027.
The Red Bull Team Principal also dismissed Rosberg’s suggestion that the culture installed by Mekies was a primary factor in Verstappen’s renewed commitment. Instead, Mekies attributed the four-time world champion’s decision to the profound trust he places in the 2,000 personnel at the Milton Keynes facility.
Laurent Mekies assumed the leadership role as CEO and Team Principal of Red Bull Racing in July 2025. His appointment followed the departure of Christian Horner, who had led the team for two decades.
Christian Horner’s exit from Red Bull Racing occurred on July 9, 2025, after the British Grand Prix. His departure was attributed to internal restructuring and a downturn in the team’s performance. Reports in September 2025 indicated a severance agreement of £80 million for his outstanding contract.
Verstappen’s decision to extend his contract through 2030 concludes months of speculation surrounding his future. This commitment is particularly notable given Red Bull’s performance challenges under the current 2026 regulations.
The exchange between Nico Rosberg and Laurent Mekies took place during the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, held on August 23, 2026, at Circuit Zandvoort. Max Verstappen’s home race ended prematurely with a dramatic crash on the opening lap.
Nico Rosberg, the 2016 Formula 1 World Champion, was performing his duties as a Sky F1 pundit at Zandvoort when he questioned Mekies.
