Max Verstappen is widely recognized as an extraordinary talent on the Formula 1 track, but according to Laurent Mekies, the newly appointed Red Bull team principal, there is much more to the Dutch driver than what meets the eye during races. Recently appointed to replace Christian Horner after his departure following twenty years at the helm, Mekies came to Red Bull from the role of sporting director at Ferrari and had previously worked with Yuki Tsunoda, but had never worked closely with Max Verstappen before.
In a candid revelation, Laurent Mekies shared how getting to know Max Verstappen beyond his on-track performances left a profound impression on him. While everyone is aware of Verstappen’s impressive race results and raw driving talent, Mekies discovered a completely different dimension to the driver’s personality and approach to the sport. “Suddenly, you get to know him a little better and see everything behind what you witness on the track. You realize that this is how you reach an incredible level.”
He elaborated, “What I mean is, we all know his unique level of performance on the track, but then you suddenly discover Max off the track—a level of commitment, love for the sport, humility, and a straightforward approach to both the highs and lows that is completely extraordinary. Suddenly, it becomes clear that this combination of factors makes him untouchable and unique.”
It only took a few weeks for Laurent Mekies to fully appreciate Verstappen’s uniqueness: “He is an incredible combination of raw talent combined with absolute passion and dedication to the sport, along with the deep understanding he has developed over time.”
Laurent Mekies added, “It’s always easy to think you know the drivers. You win four world championships and then you find yourself in a tougher season, entering the latter part of the year in a fierce title fight. You hear the noise around and see the level of concentration he manages to maintain in such moments, the calmness and the drive he brings to the team.”
After praising Max Verstappen’s composure under pressure, Laurent Mekies highlighted an important aspect of teamwork: the relationships between people within the team. “We have to ensure everyone expresses their talent to the fullest. In Max’s case, the feeling is that he has so much to offer beyond his on-track performance, leading the team in many ways.” – the former Ferrari team member concluded.
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