F1: Laurent Mekies extends at Red Bull until 2031

Red Bull has extended Laurent Mekies as team principal of its Formula 1 team until the end of the 2031 season. Shareholder Mark Mateschitz confirmed the new long-term contract on Wednesday 14 October 2026 at a team debrief in Milton Keynes, following back-to-back wins for Max Verstappen in Malaysia and Singapore.

An extension that guarantees continuity

Laurent Mekies has led the team since the summer of 2025, after Christian Horner was sacked in July of that year. He took over during a period of transition, which Red Bull describes as a difficult phase.

In the statement relayed by Crash.net, shareholders Mark Mateschitz and Chalerm Yoovidhya say he played a crucial role in guiding the team through that period. Managing director Oliver Mintzlaff stresses that continuity in leadership is a key ingredient for sustained success. Mekies himself says he is extremely proud to continue the journey with Oracle Red Bull Racing.

The sporting context

After a difficult start to the 2026 season under the new regulations, Max Verstappen won two Grands Prix in a row, first in Malaysia and then in Singapore. At the end of 2025 the Dutchman finished runner-up in the world championship, two points behind Lando Norris, after a late surge by the team.

In remarks reported by Motorsport.com, Oliver Mintzlaff praised Mekies' technical understanding and his ability to lead and empower people. He also explained that Red Bull chose to split responsibilities, as one person overseeing both the commercial and racing sides no longer suited the team.

The drivers are settled too

The extension follows Max Verstappen's, who stays at Red Bull until at least the end of 2030. Isack Hadjar has also been retained by the team for the 2027 season.

Key takeaways

• Laurent Mekies stays Red Bull team principal until the end of the 2031 season.
• The announcement was made in Milton Keynes by shareholder Mark Mateschitz.
• Verstappen is tied until at least the end of 2030, Hadjar is retained for 2027.
• No financial details were given in the sources consulted.

The editorial team