Red Bull‘s Mekies Praises Verstappen’s Extraordinary Commitment
Red Bull Racing’s Laurent Mekies has lauded Max Verstappen’s remarkable dedication both on and off the track, revealing that the four-time world champion is “as extraordinary out of the car” as he is in it. Having joined the team from Racing Bulls in July, Mekies made his first impressions of Verstappen’s work ethic and commitment to the sport during their three months together.
Surprising Depth of Verstappen’s Work Ethic
Mekies highlights that, while Verstappen’s on-track performances are well-documented and widely acknowledged, his relentless commitment behind the scenes caught him by surprise. “The biggest surprise has been to discover him outside of the car,” Mekies said. “He lives for racing. You call him at any time, he will be on the simulator training. If he’s not in the simulator, he’s racing with another car somewhere in Europe.”
A Champion’s Understanding of Team Dynamics
Mekies commended Verstappen for his deep understanding of the complexities involved in team dynamics and car development. “He knows how to drive the team towards the right solution for the car,” he remarked during the recent Securing the Win podcast, a collaboration between Motorsport Network and Red Bull.
Communication: A Key Asset
The engineer also noted Verstappen’s exceptional communication skills, essential for improving the team’s performance. “He has a natural understanding of the people around him trying to drive car performance. Sometimes it’s easy to underestimate how central Max is to the team,” Mekies explained. This synergy between driver and team is being seen as a significant asset as Red Bull aims for sustained success.
Red Bull’s Resurgence in Form
Under Verstappen’s leadership, Red Bull has turned its season around, winning three of the last four races. The team has revised its setup philosophy based on Verstappen’s feedback, using new designs for both the front wing and the car floor. Mekies, while modest about his role, has also been pivotal in enhancing communication lines within the engineering team to encourage innovative thinking.
Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright
As the 2025 title race looms on the horizon, Mekies’ insights into Verstappen’s character and work ethic signify a promising future for Red Bull Racing. With a driver so deeply embedded and influential within the team, the combination of talent and dedication hints at continued dominance in the world of Formula 1.
