Laurent Mekies has expressed surprise at the extraordinary level of dedication shown by Max Verstappen during the opening race weekends of the 2024 Formula 1 season. Mekies recently stepped into the role of team boss at Red Bull Racing after a long tenure at the sister team, Racing Bulls, and after Christian Horner’s departure as CEO and team principal.
Although Mekies has had a lengthy career in Formula 1, including work with Ferrari and the FIA, his direct interaction with Verstappen began only after taking charge of Red Bull Racing. This transition coincided with Verstappen’s announcement to remain with the team through the 2026 season.
Mekies’ First-Hand Observations of Verstappen’s Unique Qualities
Mekies’ initial exposure to Verstappen came during the Belgian and Hungarian Grands Prix, marking the first races where he worked closely with the four-time World Champion. Despite Verstappen finishing fourth at Spa-Francorchamps and ninth at the Hungaroring, Mekies was struck by the driver’s exceptional attributes both on and off the track.
Previously, Mekies had only observed Verstappen from afar, since their paths did not overlap during Verstappen’s early years at Toro Rosso. Now, Mekies recognizes Verstappen’s remarkable combination of skill and dedication.
“Suddenly, you get to know him a little bit better, at least since the last race, and you discover everything that is behind what you see on track,”
Mekies said in an interview with the BBC’s Inside Track podcast.
He emphasized that Verstappen’s success is rooted not just in his racing talent, but also in his intense commitment to the sport, his straightforward demeanor, and his ability to handle highs and lows with equal focus.
“Suddenly, it’s very clear that the combination makes him untouchable and unique. There are a lot of fast drivers out there. It’s an unbelievable combination to have that raw talent combined with the absolute love and commitment for the sport, with all the understanding that he has developed.”
Experience and Surprise: Mekies’ Perspective on Verstappen’s Focus
Before officially joining Red Bull Racing’s management team, Mekies had some familiarity with Verstappen through sharing the team’s hospitality unit for nearly two years. However, the depth of Verstappen’s focus and calm under pressure still caught him off guard.
“Of course, I have been surprised. It’s always easy to think that you know the drivers,”
Mekies admitted.
He highlighted Verstappen’s ability to maintain intense concentration despite a challenging season and ongoing title fight, noting the driver’s unwavering preparation and uncompromising professionalism surrounding each race weekend.
“You win four world titles, and you get into a more difficult season, get in the second part of the season in a fight that is difficult for for the title, hearing the noise around, and you see how the level of focus he is able to have in this sort of moment, a level of calmness and the drive he is going to bring to the team – the total absence of compromise in the approach he has and in the level of preparation he has before and after the race. Of course, I was surprised.”
Mekies Acknowledges Verstappen’s Impact Beyond Race Results
When asked whether Verstappen ranks as the best driver Mekies has worked with, the team boss cautioned against making quick comparisons but confirmed his astonishment at the driver’s overall influence and work ethic.
“Yes, I was surprised. It was well beyond what I was expecting.”
More than just the points and podium finishes, Mekies emphasized Verstappen’s role in fostering a culture of excellence throughout the entire team, appreciating how the driver’s approach benefits everyone involved in the operation.
“It’s always a collaboration in the partnerships – it’s not only for the drivers, it’s for the drivers, for the team members, it’s a large company, and it’s a very large group,”
Mekies said.
“It’s about trying to make sure that everyone is expressing their talent best. Miss that by two per cent, five per cent, multiplied by a number of people, and you are going to lose quite a lot of time on the table.”
“So it’s always about the relationship. In Max’s case, the feeling you have is that there is so much to download from him to drive the team well beyond what he’s doing on track.”
The Broader Significance of Verstappen’s Dedication
Max Verstappen’s renewed commitment to Red Bull and his relentless work ethic are set to shape the team’s strategy and morale deeply throughout the 2024 season and beyond. As Mekies continues to adjust to his leadership role, the partnership between Verstappen and Red Bull Racing promises to focus intensely on both driver performance and overall team cohesion.
Verstappen’s mix of raw talent and passion underscores a pathway to sustained success, creating an environment where each member’s contribution is maximized. This holistic approach could be instrumental in maintaining Red Bull’s competitive edge during a season of fierce competition in Formula 1.
