Toto Wolff, Mercedes Team Principal, has addressed reports concerning Gwen Lagrue, the team’s Driver Development Director, and a potential transfer to Red Bull Racing. Wolff acknowledged the ongoing speculation but stated that nothing has been formally agreed or decided from Mercedes’ perspective.
Reports, which emerged around the recent Belgian Grand Prix weekend, indicate Lagrue is set to join Red Bull. He would head their junior driver programme, effectively stepping into the role previously held by Helmut Marko.
Helmut Marko, a long-standing figure in Red Bull’s motorsport operations, retired from his advisory position at the end of the 2025 Formula 1 season. Lagrue’s appointment would fill this significant void.
Lagrue has been a pivotal figure at Mercedes for a decade, having joined the team in 2016. His responsibilities include scouting and nurturing young talent within the Mercedes junior programme.
He is widely credited with identifying and developing several drivers who have reached Formula 1. This includes current Mercedes driver George Russell and championship leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who Lagrue signed at 11 years old, is currently leading the 2026 Drivers’ Championship. This success highlights Lagrue’s expertise in talent spotting.
Wolff confirmed that discussions with Lagrue about his future are ongoing. He emphasised that Mercedes is working to carve out the necessary arrangements together with him.
The Mercedes Team Principal also noted that Lagrue has established a ‘fantastic team’ of seven to nine individuals running the junior programme. This structure provides continuity.
It is understood that Red Bull and Mercedes are currently engaged in negotiations regarding the terms of Lagrue’s release from his existing contract. A start date for his new role is not yet confirmed.
The acquisition of Lagrue is viewed as a significant strategic move for Red Bull. It aims to bolster their driver development pipeline amidst recent high-profile staff departures from the team.
Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Team Principal, and Lagrue share a long-standing professional relationship. This connection is seen as a factor in the reported transfer.
