Ahead of the 2026 F1 Miami GP, Red Bull Racing Team Principal Laurent Mekies addressed the team’s situation following the departure of several key management figures in recent years. This follows the bombshell announcement that GianPiero Lambiase will join McLaren by 2028.
From Adrian Newey to Rob Marshall, Red Bull has seen several long-time figures depart after long and successful tenures with the team. While Max Verstappen’s dominance in the ground-effect era helped lead the team to two consecutive Constructors’ titles, a significant dip in performance has become noticeable.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Mekies spoke about how the team has managed the transition as key figures who once shaped the team’s success move on to new chapters.
A reflection of the team’s strength in developing talent
Red Bull has not only developed some of the best drivers, but also nurtured top technical talent in the sport. While the number of key figures departing over the past few years could appear concerning, Mekies believes the team should not be defensive about it. Instead, he took pride in the organisation they have built—and continue to build.
“Look, we don’t want to be defensive about the number of talents that have left in the last few years. As you said, it’s been something present for quite a long time. But there is one thing we are sure of, is that we have the best people.”
“And there is no other topic on the campus than making sure we create the right environment to attract, develop, retain our people. And it’s not something that is going to be a linear, smooth way.”
Rather than viewing it as a negative, he explained that seeing key figures move on to new and major chapters in their careers is a testament to the development culture they have built.
“Ok, so nobody is leaving now. No, no, no, no. There will be people leaving, people coming. But there is nothing more important to make sure that our people, and we think they are the best ones can continue to strive and can continue to develop.”
“And you know, if we have lost so many people, that’s rightly so, you have highlighted in the past. It also highlights how much of a talent building, you know, how much of a talent factory this place is. Yes, we develop our people. Yes, they improve their skills, their abilities. They contribute to the success. And some of them may have left.”
Mekies: Lambiase’s departure came as no surprise
While Lambiase’s departure has been announced, Mekies said: “Look, at first we have GP with us for the next two years. So, you know, we don’t feel as GP has left already because we know he has a long term agreement with us. And we have a few more wins and battles to win together.”
With two years left on his contract, Mekies emphasised that the team will keep Lambiase until his departure for McLaren. While the news surprised many, he noted it had been thoroughly discussed internally. Nonetheless, Mekies wished Lambiase the very best for the future.
Mekies added: “Look, he has had an extraordinary opportunity. We respect the fact that this sort of opportunity comes once in a lifetime. He has decided to take it. He has been, you know, as much as it has been news for you guys, it’s something we’ve been discussing with him for a very long time.”
“And, you know, we only wish him well in that next phase. And we will, when the time comes, we will make sure we turn that into an opportunity for people and for the skill set we want to have him.”
“You know, GP is a fantastic professional and we know he’s going to give the absolute best. And of course, we are going to keep him.”
