Laurent Mécis: I'm incredibly lucky!

      Laurent Mekies was appointed head of Red Bull Racing just a few days ago, and Red Bull decided to give him the opportunity to tell a little about himself — here are excerpts from a video released today on the team's official YouTube page.

      Laurent Mekies: "I am married, I have three children, all boys, and they keep me grounded. My main specialty, according to my diploma from the University of Paris, is mechanical engineering. The department I studied in trains professionals for both the automotive industry and the aerospace field.

      Later, to stay as close to motorsport as possible, I continued my education in the UK... I've liked cars and motorsport since childhood, and I've been incredibly lucky: I've spent my entire life involved in racing. It seems to me that I have a wonderful hobby, and I'm even paid for it!

      My career can be somewhat compared to that of racing drivers, because after university I first worked in youth categories and eventually made my way to Formula 1. I've gained experience in various teams worldwide: in 2000, I started with Arrows, but soon transferred to Minardi, which later became Toro Rosso.

      I worked there for ten years, then moved to FIA, where I was Director of Safety, before returning to Formula 1 and collaborating with Ferrari for five years, and finally ending up again in the Red Bull family. I initially worked with Racing Bulls and now have been appointed to Red Bull Racing.

      You see, even after a quarter-century in motorsport, when I go to the track, I still feel like I am in a very privileged position. I still feel like a fan who got the best ticket. Because I sit in the pit wall and watch the races from there — it's the best job in the world!

      Now I want to get to know everyone at Red Bull Racing as soon as possible, with this incredible team, to feel that magic — this is what the coming weeks will be dedicated to. I will listen to the opinions of the people working here and try to understand the team's intricacies, so that ultimately I can contribute to the common goal."