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

      Laurent Mekies stated that Red Bull can quell ongoing speculation regarding Max Verstappen's future by providing the Dutch driver with a truly competitive car. Verstappen is the subject of rampant rumors due to an exit clause in his contract and Red Bull’s challenges in the transition following key figures like Christian Horner, Adrian Newey, and Dr. Helmut Marko.

      "An agreement is an agreement, a contract is a contract," Mekies told Bild when questioned about Verstappen’s contract, which runs until 2028 and includes well-known exit clauses. "We cannot change the situation and are concentrating on making the car quicker."

      When asked if he is confident Verstappen will remain with the team, the Red Bull principal mentioned that the four-time world champion is still heavily engaged. "We maintain regular communication with Max, and his involvement in the project and commitment gives us a positive feeling," the Frenchman remarked. "Nothing has shifted in that regard. I understand Max: his goal is to win. That’s the reason he’s in this sport, and the same applies to us. For that, he requires a fast car."

      The upgrade for Red Bull at the Austrian GP showed a significant improvement, but Mekies emphasized that the goal is much larger than simply competing for individual race victories. "We have certainly made progress, but it’s not just about winning standalone races. We aim to initiate a new cycle of success. Red Bull has always functioned in cycles. From 2010 to 2013, they secured four world championships with Sebastian Vettel before Mercedes had years of dominance. Max interrupted that dominance by becoming champion four times consecutively from 2021 to 2024."

      When asked how soon Red Bull can enter another period of dominance, Mekies joked, "Not in another seven years!" He added seriously, "We’re on the right path, but it’s difficult to predict when we’ll reach that stage again. It’s not merely about making any kind of progress; it’s about making meaningful advancements. We need to establish a strong foundation for lasting success. Such progress doesn’t happen overnight in Formula 1. Max understands that as well."

      Verstappen has voiced his frustration with Red Bull’s performance this season multiple times, but Mekies believes those responses are justifiable, as "emotions are part of this sport." "We experience the same frustration as Max after a poor race," he noted. "I appreciate those emotions, but we cannot allow them to control us. Our focus is on racing. When we have a quick car, all distractions fade away."

      Mekies dismissed the idea that the ongoing discussions surrounding Verstappen harm the team's efforts. "We strive not to get caught up in the surrounding noise," he stated. "And Max doesn't harbor anger for two weeks; he’s back in the simulator in Milton Keynes three days after the Silverstone race. But again, if we have a fast car, there won’t be any more background noise. The responsibility lies with us."

      Red Bull has also been pleased with Isack Hadjar, who has emerged as the team's strongest second driver over recent seasons. "Isack has had a very solid start to this season," Mekies commented. "It’s easy to overlook that this is just his second season in Formula 1. His success is due to his professional attitude. He moved to England, close to the factory, right after signing with us and is often in Milton Keynes. We are very satisfied with him."

      Mekies believes Hadjar still has significant potential for growth. "What sets the very best drivers apart from the good ones is their continuous improvement. We observe that in Isack. After every few races, we notice things where we think, 'We haven’t seen that from him before; that’s new!' Both he and Max require the best possible equipment from us to continue their development."