'Max is aware' that Red Bull is planning for the future - Mekies

      Laurent Mekies states that Red Bull can quell the ongoing speculation regarding Max Verstappen’s future only by providing the Dutch driver with a truly competitive car. Verstappen remains the focus of intense rumors due to an exit clause in his contract and Red Bull's challenges in the aftermath of Christian Horner, Adrian Newey, and Dr. Helmut Marko’s tenure.

      "An agreement is an agreement, a contract is a contract," Mekies told Bild when inquired about Verstappen’s deal extending to 2028, which includes well-known exit clauses. "We cannot alter the situation and are concentrating on enhancing the car's speed." When asked if he is still confident Verstappen will remain, the Red Bull chief mentioned that the four-time world champion is still heavily involved.

      "We maintain regular communication with Max, and his level of involvement in the project and dedication gives us a positive impression," said the Frenchman. "Nothing has changed in that regard. I understand Max: he aims to win. That’s his motivation for being in this sport, and we share that goal. To achieve this, he needs a competitive car."

      Red Bull's upgrade for the Austrian GP led to a noticeable improvement, but Mekies asserts that their aim goes beyond just occasionally contending for victories. "We have certainly made progress, but it’s not solely about winning individual races. We want to initiate a new winning cycle. Red Bull has historically functioned in cycles. From 2010 to 2013, they captured four world championships with Sebastian Vettel before Mercedes enjoyed years of dominance. Max disrupted that dominance by winning four consecutive titles from 2021 to 2024."

      When asked how quickly Red Bull can re-enter a dominant phase, Mekies joked, "Not in another seven years!"

      "On a serious note, we’re headed in the right direction, but it’s difficult to predict when we will return to that level. It’s not merely about making progress but about achieving substantial advancements. We need to establish the right foundation for enduring success, which doesn’t occur overnight in Formula 1. Max understands that as well."

      Verstappen has voiced his frustrations with Red Bull's performance this season, but Mekies understands these reactions are natural since "emotions are part of this sport." "We feel just as frustrated as Max after a poor race," he remarked. "I appreciate those emotions, but we cannot allow them to dominate us. Our focus is on racing. When we have a fast car, all distractions fade away."

      Mekies refuted the idea that the continuous discussions regarding Verstappen are hindering the team's efforts. "We strive not to get caught up in everything else that’s occurring," he stated. "And Max doesn’t hold onto anger for weeks. He’s back in the simulator in Milton Keynes just three days after the Silverstone race. But ultimately, if we have a competitive car, the background noise will diminish. It is up to us."

      Red Bull is also encouraged by Isack Hadjar, who has emerged as the team's most promising second driver in recent seasons. "Isack has had an excellent start to this season," Mekies said. "It’s easy to overlook that this is only his second season in Formula 1. However, this is a testament to his professional mindset. He relocated to England, near the factory, right after signing with us and is often at our Milton Keynes facility. We are very pleased with his progress."

      Mekies believes Hadjar has significant potential for growth. "What sets the very best drivers apart from the good ones is their continuous improvement, and we see that in Isack. Every few races, we notice attributes where we think, 'We haven't seen him do that before, that’s new!' But, as with Max, we must provide him with the best possible equipment to facilitate his development."