Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has dismissed claims that Max Verstappen’s motivation is diminishing in Formula 1 (F1). This comes despite the Dutchman’s increasingly sharp criticism of Formula 1’s new 2026 regulations. Verstappen has been one of the most vocal drivers regarding the next-generation cars, these cars featuring a 50/50 split hybrid power system with active aerodynamics. He notably labelled the 2026 F1 cars as “Formula E on steroids” during pre-season testing. He reiterated this in Melbourne. There, he stated that he felt “completely empty” when pushing the car to its limits in qualifying.
These comments reignited past speculation as to whether Verstappen could leave F1 when his Red Bull contract expires in 2028. However, Mekies maintains there’s no evidence of disengagement from Verstappen occurring behind closed doors.
When asked if he had any concerns about Verstappen’s motivation in regards to his 2026 F1 season, Mekies was certain:
“No, no. When he’s with us, as far as the relationship with the team is concerned, there is absolutely no difference compared to last year in terms of how hard he’s pushing on every single detail and how precise he is in his feedback on every single thing.”
Mekies continued by adding that Verstappen also remains fully capable of separating the team’s development work from his personal preferences.
“So, he’s able to put his personal preferences on the side when he debriefs with us and when we are chasing the performance together.”
Criticism comes from care for the sport
Mekies recognised Verstappen’s obvious frustration with how the 2026 F1 cars behave, particularly in low-braking circuits such as Albert Park. At the track, drivers were losing speed despite keeping flat on the throttle. Mekies believes that the Dutchman’s feedback comes from his desire for the sport to improve.
“I think Max cares about the sport and he’s giving us alot of input on what he thinks could be improvements,” he said.
“We are listening. As a sport, we are talking between the teams and between the FIA and F1 to see what the way forward is.” Mekies continued.
A wider evaluation still to come
Mekies stressed that proper judgement should wait until the cars run on a wider variety of circuits.
“Obviously, here [Albert Park] is one of the most difficult tracks. It will be interesting to see after China how much of a difference it makes to go on a track that is a bit less energy hungry. And then, if there are improvements to make, I’m sure as a sport we will find a way to make them.”
For now, Red Bull and Mekies have been adamant that Verstappen remains fully committed, despite his patience with the 2026 rules is wearing thin.
