Red Bull F1 boss Mekies gets new deal to 2031

Red Bull have extended the contract of team principal Laurent Mekies until the end of 2031.

The Frenchman has led the team since he replaced Christian Horner following the Briton's sacking in the summer of 2025 after 20 years in charge.

After a difficult start to the 2026 season, Red Bull have improved their car to the extent that Max Verstappen has taken dominant victories in the last two races, in Malaysia and Singapore.

A statement attributed to the two main shareholders of Red Bull, Thai Chalerm Yoovidhya and Austrian Mark Mateschitz, said: "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.

"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 move comes less than two months after Verstappen extended his own contract with Red Bull by two years to the end of 2030 after a period of uncertainty over his future.

Verstappen's two victories came in the wake of an interview Horner gave to the Times in which he claimed Red Bull had "lost its mojo, its presence, its vibe".

Oliver Mintzlaff, who is in charge of the Red Bull F1 programme in his role as chief executive officer of corporate projects and investments, said: "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.

"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 said: "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.

"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 talent and committed group every day."