Laurent Mekies prolongs his contract as the head of Red Bull's F1 team.
Laurent Mekies has renewed his contract as team principal of the Red Bull Formula 1 team, securing his position until the conclusion of 2031.
This extension means the Frenchman will lead the Austrian team for a minimum of six seasons after stepping in July 2025, succeeding Christian Horner, who had a 20-year run as the team’s leader.
Mekies made the transition from the sister team Racing Bulls, which he took charge of at the beginning of the 2024 season, following a six-year stint at Ferrari, where he served first as sporting director and later as racing director.
“I am extremely proud to continue this journey with Oracle Red Bull Racing,” Mekies expressed.
“I want to extend my gratitude to Chalerm [Yoovidhya, shareholder], Mark [Mateschitz, shareholder], and Oliver [Mintzlaff, CEO], along with the entire team and everyone involved for the confidence they have shown in this project.
“What sets this team apart is the way everyone unites in pursuit of a common objective, and I consider it a privilege to collaborate with such a skilled and dedicated group each day.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Racing Team Principal
“Together, with Pierre Wache’s and Ben Hodgkinson’s teams playing crucial roles in shaping our future, we have a solid foundation for the upcoming years.
“We truly believe this is just the beginning. As we look forward, we will continue to uphold the principles that characterize us: being independent in our thinking, swift in our actions, and daring in our decisions.”
This announcement comes at an opportune moment for Red Bull as they have reacted to their sluggish start in the 2026 regulation shift by implementing ongoing car enhancements, resulting in a late-season comeback.
World champion Max Verstappen has clinched victories in the last two grands prix - Malaysia and Singapore - from pole position, with Red Bull now just seven points behind third-placed McLaren with six races remaining.
Verstappen also recently solidified his commitment to Red Bull in August by signing a new contract that extends to the end of 2030, building on his initial agreement that was due to expire in 2028.
This effectively quashed any rising speculation about his future, and in 2027, the Dutch driver will team up with the impressive sophomore Isack Hadjar, who was confirmed last month.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
“Laurent has exhibited exceptional leadership since rejoining the Red Bull family,” Mintzlaff stated.
“He merges technical knowledge, strategic insight, and a profound understanding of what drives our team’s success.
“Equally important, he embodies the values and mindset that represent the Red Bull approach: bravery, collaboration, resilience, and an unwavering ambition to compete at the highest level.
“Stability in leadership is vital for ongoing success, and we are thrilled that Laurent will continue to steer the team through the next chapter of our journey.”
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