JANUARY 26, 2026

Mekies urges patience as Verstappen plays down 2026 fears

Laurent Mekies says Max Verstappen fully understands the challenge facing Red Bull as it prepares for the 2026 regulations alongside new power unit partner Ford, amid renewed speculation about the Dutchman's long-term future.

Speaking to De Telegraaf, Mekies said there is no illusion within Red Bull about where the team currently stands heading into the new era.

Everyone has a realistic picture of the situation, Mekies said. "It would also be weird to think Max doesn't get that - he fully understands it.

But the fact that we are now objectively describing the state of affairs does not mean that we do not have the ambition to become number 1.

Mekies added that Verstappen remains deeply involved in the project despite questions surrounding Red Bull's competitiveness in the opening phase of the new rules.

Max is involved in every discussion, every analysis and the way we take risks, he said. He is taken into account everywhere. That's the only mindset that suits Red Bull - to leave no doubt about what our ultimate goal is.

The Frenchman also asked supporters to show patience. People should give us time, Mekies said.

Verstappen struck a similarly measured tone in a separate interview with Bloomberg, insisting it is too early to judge how competitive Red Bull will be in 2026.

To be honest, I have no idea how we'll do, the four-time world champion said. I haven't done many laps in the simulator yet either. I'll just see what happens when I'm in the car.

You just have to adapt quickly and learn quickly, because the cars will certainly be developed very rapidly, Verstappen added. But to be honest, I'm not too worried.

(GMM)