Laurent Mekies says there were zero discussions with Max Verstappen about retirement

Verstappen has grabbed headlines over the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix weekend following hints that he is considering his future within Formula 1.

The Dutchman has been unhappy with the 2026 F1 regulations and the power management required by the new power units, with his RB22 being uncompetitive, adding to his frustration.

However, Verstappen's team boss, Mekies, insists there were no such talks within Red Bull Racing; he said: "We are having zero discussions about those aspects.

"We have a lot of work to do, but I'm sure by the time we give him a fast car, he will be a much happier Max. And by the time we give him a car that he can push and make the difference with, he will also be a happier Max.

"So, honestly, that's 100% of our discussions right now, is that," the Frenchman maintained.

As for his opinion about the new regulations, Mekies gave a diplomatic answer saying: "And as per the regs, as you know, they are coming with some good aspects and more tricky aspects.

"And as a sport, with the other teams, we will meet in the break to see how we can tweak them to make things better," he concluded.

Red Bull are currently lagging behind Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren, while Verstappen did not even manage to outrace Pierre Gasly in an Alpine on Sunday at Suzuka.

The team are sixth in the 2026 F1 Constructors' Championship with 16 points. Haas and Alpine are in fourth and fifth, respectively.

Verstappen is ninth in the F1 Drivers' Standings with 12 points, while his teammate, Isack Hadjar, is down in 12th place with four points. (Reporting by Agnes Carlier from Suzuka)