Mekies Takes Credit at Red Bull: Verstappen Praises the Impact

Mekies refuses to take credit for Red Bull’s success, Verstappen disagrees

Amid Red Bull’s resurgence, team boss Laurent Mekies maintains his stance of not taking credit for the team’s notable performance improvement. An opinion that contrasts with that of Max Verstappen, who suggests that Mekies is being “too modest”. Since Mekies took over the leadership in July, Red Bull’s performance has undergone a significant change. Verstappen achieved a podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix after the summer break, followed by consecutive victories in Monza and Baku, and secured second place at the Singapore Grand Prix.

It’s basically due to everyone’s work trying to analyze the car’s limitations, race after race. What prevents us from exploiting the car’s potential? How can we add performance to the car? Where do we need to add performance so that it translates into lap time?

Laurent Mekies

Following Verstappen’s victory in Monza in September, Mekies downplayed its impact since taking the reins. Three races later, his opinion hasn’t changed. As for whether he would reconsider the amount of credit he can take on now, Mekies replied to reporters: “It’s still zero, guys. It’s still zero.”

Mekies explained that the improvement in performance is due to the collective work to analyze the car’s limitations and find ways to optimize its potential. He highlighted Verstappen’s contributions and the importance of continuing to work on each race. The change of course has led to Verstappen being considered a real threat in the fight for the drivers’ title. Verstappen, for his part, has praised Mekies for his work since he took office. He highlighted Mekies’ sensible approach to car setup, stemming from his engineering experience.

I think Laurent is probably too modest in that sense.

Max Verstappen

Verstappen highlighted teamwork and the analysis of details as key factors in improving performance. Although he acknowledges that some races may present challenges, he emphasizes the importance of understanding the areas for improvement and how to achieve better performance. Mekies’ participation in this process has been fundamental to success.