Red Bull update: Medical procedure keeps Laurent Mekies away from first Bahrain F1 pre-season test. Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies will miss the first three days of the 2026 Bahrain F1 tests.

Red Bull setback: Laurent Mekies to miss first three days of Bahrain testing

The 2026 season for Red Bull kicks off with a minor setback, particularly for team principal Laurent Mekies. The Austro-British team has announced that the French manager—his first full season as the head of the Milton Keynes squad—will not be present for the opening three days of testing at the Bahrain circuit, scheduled from February 11 to 13.

Laurent Mekies out, but returning for ‘Test 2’

According to the team, Laurent Mekies will undergo a “small routine medical procedure.” Fortunately, there’s nothing serious for the former Ferrari official. The goal is for him to be back in the garage for the second part of testing, covering the final three days from February 18 to 20.

In the meantime, Laurent Mekies will remain in “close contact” with the team on-site in Bahrain, ensuring he can monitor all developments on track despite his temporary absence.

In summary, while Laurent Mekies’ absence from the first leg of Bahrain testing is an unexpected start to the year, Red Bull‘s established operational structure should ensure the team remains on track during these critical early sessions. With the French manager expected to return for the final three days of testing, his focus will likely remain on integrating into his new leadership role while managing the technical challenges posed by the 2026 regulations. This brief recovery period allows the team to continue their data collection efforts at Sakhir, ensuring they are fully prepared for his return and the subsequent season opener in Melbourne.