Red Bull makes a move for Mercedes' junior team leader Lagrue.

      "We are having discussions with Gwen regarding the future."

      Red Bull is allegedly attempting to lure the individual responsible for Mercedes’ highly effective young driver program as it works to reconstruct the framework once led by the now-retired Dr. Helmut Marko. Reports from De Telegraaf and others indicate that Gwen Lagrue is negotiating to leave Mercedes to take over Red Bull’s renowned junior program. However, Lagrue is still under contract with Mercedes, and the Frenchman is reportedly discussing the terms of his potential exit.

      When approached about these reports, a spokesperson from Mercedes mentioned that the team "never comments on stories or rumors." Nevertheless, Toto Wolff was asked directly after the Belgian GP about the person who helped identify and develop championship leader Kimi Antonelli. When inquired about the unfolding reports, Wolff smiled and replied, "Really?" He then confirmed that discussions are ongoing.

      "Yes, we are in conversation with Gwen about the future, but nothing has been finalized yet, and we have not reached an agreement," the Mercedes team principal stated. "Gwen has built a fantastic team."

      Lagrue has been at the helm of Mercedes’ junior program for approximately ten years, with Antonelli and George Russell being among its most notable alumni. Still, Wolff emphasized that the structure encompasses much more than just one individual. "We have seven, eight, or nine people involved in the junior program, along with several junior drivers." He mentioned that Mercedes is also redefining roles within the team following Bradley Lord’s promotion to deputy team principal.

      "With Bradley stepping up as deputy team principal, we need to address this kind of matter. We aim to do that in collaboration with Gwen." If an agreement is reached between the competing teams, Lagrue could potentially join Red Bull in 2027.

      His addition would be pivotal for Red Bull following Marko’s exit, as the Austrian had managed one of Formula 1’s most successful driver academies. Notable drivers such as Verstappen, Carlos Sainz, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Isack Hadjar, and many others emerged through Red Bull’s development program. Hadjar mentioned during an interview at Spa, "If I hadn’t been with Red Bull, I would never have made it to F1. That’s the unfortunate truth."

      Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman concurred, stating that support from manufacturers has become increasingly crucial. "It’s very challenging otherwise," the Haas driver remarked. "Regrettably, we’re in a period where the sport is quite costly, and without backing from a manufacturer, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to reach the top level."