SINGAPORE – Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies insists on not taking credit for the dramatic change in the team’s performance under his direction, something Max Verstappen considers to be “too kind”. Since Mekies replaced Christian Horner in July, Red Bull’s performance has taken a notable turn. Verstappen achieved a podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix after the summer break, followed by consecutive victories in Monza and Baku, before securing second position at Sunday’s Singapore Grand Prix. After Verstappen’s victory in Monza in September, Mekies deflected questions about his impact since taking office. Three races later, his opinion hasn’t changed.
“It’s still zero, guys. It’s still zero,” he told reporters on Sunday night when asked if he would reconsider how much credit he can take now. “And I say that with the same seriousness as I told you after Monza.
Laurent Mekies
Max Verstappen (left) next to Red Bull boss, Laurent Mekies (right).
Mekies explained that the improvement in performance is due to teamwork to analyze the limitations of the car and how to improve performance. He highlighted Verstappen’s contributions in this process. The change in performance has led McLaren to consider Verstappen a real threat in the fight for the drivers’ title. Verstappen has praised Mekies for his work since he took over. Mekies, with experience in engineering, has introduced a more sensible approach to the car’s setup, according to Verstappen. “I think Laurent is probably being too nice in that sense,” Verstappen said on Sunday night. Verstappen added that the team focus and the analysis of weaknesses have been key to the improvement in performance. Although he acknowledged that they have had difficulties in some races, they now better understand how to improve.
