Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies explains the deal with Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen emphasised years ago that he made his Formula 1 debut with Red Bull and would prefer to end his Formula 1 career with the energy drink manufacturer as well. Nothing has changed in that regard to this day. Nevertheless, there has been wild speculation in recent months about what the future holds for his career.

There are several reasons for this. On the one hand, a new generation of cars was introduced this year that did not at all meet the four-time champion’s expectations. On the other hand, the competition has been courting the services of the exceptional Dutch driver more or less openly. Furthermore, there have also been several high-profile departures from the Milton Keynes-based team in recent months.

It’s not just Red Bull Racing in a celebratory mood

Yet Verstappen has decided to continue his bid for the world championship with Red Bull Racing for another four years. And team principal Laurent Mekies is delighted: “This is phenomenal news, certainly for Red Bull Racing. But I would also go so far as to say that it’s a positive development for Formula 1 and even for the world of sport in general.”

“If I had to choose one word to sum it all up, it would be trust. It’s a testament to the trust Max has in us, and we don’t take that lightly. Because we know it comes with a great deal of responsibility. We want to put together a complete package for him over the next few years that will allow him to fight at the top again,” emphasises the Frenchman.

More than just the fastest driver

And Mekies also makes it clear: “For us, Max is much more than just the fastest driver in the world. He is the linchpin; he is involved in all strategic decisions, and it’s brilliant that he’s staying on board with us to build the next successful phase. For this to succeed, we need three pillars: firstly, the driving aspect; secondly, the team members; and finally, the right strategy. And as far as the driver is concerned, we’ve now ticked that box.”

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The team principal also recognises that Verstappen’s long-term contract extension will help in the team’s efforts to attract the best team members: “We’ve said time and again that we’re confident we have the best people in Milton Keynes and at the circuit. And of course it’s immensely important when it comes to the best staff, because good people can choose where they want to work. They have a choice, and when a driver like Max – the fastest in the world – opts for a long-term deal, it proves just how firmly we’re committed to success. We’re all united by one thing: we want to win.”