Red Bull Extends Team Principal Laurent Mekies' Contract Through 2031
The French executive's deal is secured following a period of transition and recent on-track success for the Formula 1 team.
Red Bull Racing has extended the contract of its team principal, Laurent Mekies, through the end of the 2031 season. Mekies assumed leadership of the team in the summer of 2025, succeeding Christian Horner.
This contract extension follows a recent upswing in the team's performance, with Max Verstappen securing dominant victories in the Malaysian and Singapore Grand Prix races earlier in the 2026 season. The team had experienced a challenging start to the year.
A joint statement from Red Bull's principal shareholders, Chalerm Yoovidhya and Mark Mateschitz, expressed confidence in Mekies' leadership. "Laurent has played a crucial role in guiding the team through an important period of transition while maintaining the competitive spirit and the Red Bull principles that define us," the statement read. "This extension reflects our confidence in his leadership and our shared belief in the long-term vision of the team. We are ambitious about what lies ahead and we are committed to building on this momentum together."
The announcement comes less than two months after Verstappen extended his own contract with Red Bull, securing his presence with the team until the end of 2030.
Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of corporate projects and investments and head of the Red Bull F1 program, commented on Mekies' leadership. "Laurent has demonstrated outstanding leadership since returning to the Red Bull family. He combines technical expertise, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what makes our team successful," Mintzlaff said. "Just as importantly, he embodies the values and mentality that define the Red Bull way: courage, teamwork, determination, and an unrelenting desire to compete at the highest level. Continuity in leadership is a key ingredient for sustained success."
Mekies expressed his pride in continuing his tenure with Red Bull Racing. "I am incredibly proud to continue this journey with Red Bull Racing, and I would like to thank Chalerm, Mark, and Oliver, the entire team, and everyone involved for the trust they have placed in the project," Mekies stated. "What makes this team special is the way everyone comes together in pursuit of the same goal, and I feel privileged to work alongside such a talented and committed group every day."