Max states that the team 'required' the people-oriented engineer Mekies.

      "We have frequent discussions about various topics."

      Max Verstappen mentions that the atmosphere at Red Bull has improved after Christian Horner's departure, noting that new team principal Laurent Mekies made a favorable impression during his first weekend at Spa. "The atmosphere is very good," Verstappen shared with Dutch media, downplaying any tensions related to the recent leadership transition. The triple world champion reportedly advocated for more freedom to leave Red Bull by 2027, and sources believe that Horner's exit has facilitated that possibility.

      Mekies brings a technical background, which Verstappen views as a positive: "When someone is more technically inclined, it's natural to engage in more technical discussions with them. He's simply a different type of team principal." When asked if this aspect was absent under Horner, Verstappen said, "We have a lot of discussions about various topics, and of course, that remains within the team."

      Mekies is described internally as a "people person," a change that Verstappen acknowledges. "Perhaps the team needed that. I get along well with him, which is always a bonus. Hopefully, we can collaborate more closely in the coming weeks and months."

      Regarding whether an engineer-type leader is essential in F1, Verstappen replied: "Maybe. I’m not looking to discuss that for an extended period. But everyone seems pleased and in good spirits."

      Verstappen praised his interim race engineer Simon Rennie and indicated that more changes could be forthcoming: "It's challenging to suddenly declare that many things need to change within two weeks. Perhaps you want to make some adjustments, and those will happen in the coming weeks and months."

      "He's (Mekies) definitely very enthusiastic and motivated. I work well with him, as well as with Simon. He steps in and is immediately engaged. It's very enjoyable collaborating with Simon."

      Verstappen’s sprint win provided Mekies with an early success. "The team can always rely on me. They will consistently receive my utmost effort, regardless of who is in charge. I'm always striving to deliver the best possible results, which is also what I'm compensated for."

      However, with the higher downforce for Sunday’s race, Verstappen found himself outside the top three in qualifying. "I’m always very realistic about how the car feels. When I watch certain onboards from other cars, I have enough insight."

      "Helmut isn’t in the car," he remarked, responding to Dr. Marko’s optimistic outlook about a potential victory and ongoing title challenge. "I understand the need for positivity."

      Ho-Pin Tung commented on Viaplay that Verstappen shifted from "the fastest to nearly the slowest" on the straights during qualifying. "It might turn out to be the right choice for Sunday," added Tung.

      Marko acknowledged that Red Bull is "counting on rain, of course," but Verstappen remains cautious: "McLaren is the best car regardless of the conditions, even on a wet track."

      "Rain here typically means that drivers starting from the back can hardly see anything, which is far from ideal. Even then, I might only gain one position at most."

      Looking ahead to Verstappen’s prospects for 2026 and beyond, Auto Motor und Sport quoted an unnamed driver as saying: "If you’re going to make a mistake, it’s better to do it with your current team. In 2026, you’ll be able to make a much more informed choice."