Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has provided a clear and direct response to ongoing speculation about Max Verstappen's future with the team. The four-time world champion's long-term prospects have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks, particularly after he hinted at a possible retirement from Formula 1.
Verstappen revealed last month that he is reconsidering his future in the sport, having expressed frustration over the impact of new regulations introduced this season. The uncertainty was compounded earlier this month when it was confirmed that Red Bull engineer Gianpiero Lambiase would be departing to join McLaren, with the move expected to take place in 2028.
This development sparked fresh rumours about Verstappen's position at Red Bull. However, speaking ahead of Sunday's Miami Grand Prix, Mekies dismissed any suggestion that Lambiase's exit would lead to Verstappen leaving the team.
"Absolutely not," Mekies said, via The Independent, when asked if the departure could trigger Verstappen's exit. "That's my direct answer to you. Obviously, we speak with Max every day. And Max knows motorsport upside-down. He's living and breathing this team."
Mekies emphasised the strength and depth of the team, noting that not everyone can be promoted, and individual decisions do not reflect the broader reality. "The team has been extremely successful and you can't promote everyone. And some people make some decisions. In the big scheme of things, Max also knows [this] very well, it represents such a tiny part, which we accept you guys [media] focus on, compared to the reality," he added.
Mekies' remarks come after Verstappen opened up about his future following an eighth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix. Speaking to the BBC in Suzuka, Verstappen said: "That's what I'm saying. I'm thinking about everything inside this paddock. Privately, I'm very happy. You also wait for 24 races. This time it's 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about it: is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you're not enjoying your sport?"
He added: "I can easily accept to be in P7 or P8 where I am. Because I also know that you can't be dominating or be first or second or whatever, fighting for a podium every time. I'm very realistic in that, and I've been there before. I've not only been winning in F1, but at the same time when you are in P7 or P8 and you are not enjoying the whole formula behind it, it doesn't feel natural to a racing driver. Of course I try to adapt to it, but it's not nice the way you have to race. It's really anti-driving. Then at one point, yeah, it's just not what I want to do. And of course you can look at it and make a lot of money. Great. But at the end of the day it's not about money any more because this has always been my passion."
