Red Bull F1 CEO Laurent Mekies breaks silence on Max Verstappen’s future amid Oscar Piastri-McLaren transfer rumours ahead of Austrian Grand Prix 2026

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has responded to fresh speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future. Reports during the Austrian Grand Prix weekend claimed the four-time Formula 1 world champion could be involved in a sensational swap deal with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri as early as next season.The rumours surfaced as Red Bull continues to face a difficult start to the 2026 campaign. Verstappen has openly expressed his frustration with the team’s lack of pace. However, Mekies insisted that the Dutch driver remains committed to Red Bull and is focused on helping the team return to the front of the Formula 1 grid.

Laurent Mekies says Max Verstappen remains committed to Red Bull despite McLaren speculation

Laurent Mekies dismissed the latest reports linking Max Verstappen with a move to McLaren. The Red Bull boss told media that the team is not worried about the rumours because Verstappen has already made his intentions clear.According to Mekies, Verstappen wants to continue with Red Bull. He explained that the driver’s main priority is having a competitive car that can fight for victories and championships. Mekies added that the team fully understands those expectations and is working hard to deliver better performance. A similar statement was issued by Max Verstappen’s manager Raymond Vermeulen.

Red Bull introduced a major upgrade package for the Austrian Grand Prix.

The update is designed to reduce the extra weight carried by the RB22 and improve its overall pace. The team hopes the changes will help close the gap to the leading teams after a disappointing start to the season.Mekies said there is no need to repeatedly ask Verstappen about his future because the driver has already shared his position with the team. He explained that Verstappen remains fully involved in the development process.

The Dutchman continues to provide valuable feedback during race weekends and works closely with the engineers to improve the car.The Red Bull boss also pointed to the recent discussions between Formula 1, the FIA, and the teams regarding future technical regulations. He said the adjustments planned for the 2027 and 2028 seasons are positive for the championship. In his view, the revised rules will benefit talented drivers and create better racing across the grid.Mekies added that Verstappen has played an active role in those discussions by sharing his views on what is needed from future regulations. He believes the open communication between the governing body, Formula 1, and the teams has helped move the sport in the right direction.He also stressed that Red Bull’s full attention is on improving its car rather than responding to transfer speculation. Mekies said Verstappen continues to push the team every weekend and is heavily involved in testing different setups and development ideas to unlock more performance.The Red Bull chief concluded that the solution is simple. If the team can provide Verstappen with a car capable of fighting at the front again, the questions about his future will disappear.