Mekies: Verstappen has always been central to Red Bull

Verstappen ended months of speculation by confirming he would remain with Red Bull for the start of F1’s new technical era, despite sustained interest from Mercedes and Aston Martin. Mekies welcomed the public statement, even if internally Verstappen’s loyalty was never in question.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Verstappen clarified that despite the rumours, his decision was never in doubt internally. “I think it’s time to stop all the rumours. For me, it was always quite clear that I was staying,” he said.

“I don't think there was a real doubt,” Mekies said. “As far as the team was concerned he's said over and over again that he wants a fast car. The fact he's said it a bit louder is good for everyone to hear but as far as we are concerned, he's always been a part and central to the team.”

Mekies underlined how valuable Verstappen’s experience is to Red Bull, particularly during difficult sessions like those seen at the Hungaroring so far. The #1 car was way down in P12 on the timesheets after FP3 in Hungary, 1.2 seconds down on the top time set by McLaren's Oscar Piastri, ahead of Qualifying later today.

“It's essential, a huge advantage. He knows when the car has been working and not working,” Mekies explained. “In situations like that it's not a balance issue, we are struggling to find the level of grip and he's a huge help in these situations.”

Despite Verstappen’s presence and feedback, Red Bull are facing an uphill task in Hungary. Mekies admitted both Verstappen and teammate Yuki Tsunoda have been uncomfortable throughout practice.

“We have been struggling since yesterday. It's been very difficult to put the car in the right window to give Max and Yuki the right feeling,” he said. “We have tried a number of things to turn the car around but I have to say, it's the same sort of feeling today and [we are] not finding the grip overall.”

He continued: “Uncomfortable but the sort of situation where you learn some things, so we are trying to do quite a few tests to understand where the limitations are. We have gone in different directions [with the drivers]. From the first run yesterday, it felt like something was not quite right. We have been experimenting but so far we have not cracked it.”

Red Bull enter qualifying under pressure, with both cars still searching for balance and traction on a notoriously sensitive track.