Red Bull F1 boss Mekies gets new deal to 2031
Red Bull have extended team principal Laurent Mekies’s contract through to the end of 2031, signalling confidence in his leadership and the team’s long-term direction. The decision follows a difficult start to the 2026 season, as Red Bull’s performance has improved and Max Verstappen has won the last two races.
Mekies took over from Christian Horner in 2025, after Horner was sacked following 20 years in charge. The deal comes less than two months after Verstappen extended his own contract to the end of 2030; Red Bull’s shareholders and executive Oliver Mintzlaff cited Mekies’s leadership and continuity as important to sustained success.
- Mekies will lead Red Bull through 2031.
- Verstappen’s deal runs to the end of 2030.
- Red Bull have won the last two races.
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Red Bull Racing is a Formula One team backed by the energy drinks company of the same name. Its team principal oversees the racing operation, including decisions about staff, drivers and the team’s direction.
Laurent Mekies took the role in 2025, succeeding Christian Horner, who had led the team for 20 years. Max Verstappen is Red Bull’s leading driver and has been central to its success in recent seasons.
A team’s results depend on many factors, including its car, drivers and engineering staff. Long-term contracts for senior figures can provide continuity as a team plans and develops across future seasons.