Red Bull extends Laurent Mekies’ contract as team principal through 2031

MILTON KEYNES, England (AP) — Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has signed a long-term contract extension with the Formula 1 team, through 2031.

The extension was announced Wednesday by Red Bull shareholder Mark Mateschitz, during a team debrief in Milton Keynes following Max Verstappen’s back-to-back victories in Malaysia and Singapore.

“I am incredibly proud to continue this journey with Oracle Red Bull Racing,” Mekies said in a statement. “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 talented and committed group every day.

“We have a strong platform for the years ahead, and we genuinely believe this is only the beginning.”

Mekies has been in charge for 15 months after replacing longtime boss Christian Horner, who was abruptly fired in July last year.

The contract extension brings further stability to Red Bull after four-time F1 champion Verstappen and teammate Isack Hadjar also recently renewed their deals.

“The strength of Red Bull has always come from its people and from creating an environment where talented individuals can achieve extraordinary things together,” Red Bull shareholders Chalerm Yoovidhya and Mark Mateschitz said in a statement.

“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.”

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