Formula 1 expert Ted Kravitz has suggested that Max Verstappen’s new Red Bull team principal will need to adopt a ruthless and aggressive approach, described as being like a “piranha,” to succeed following Christian Horner’s departure. Laurent Mekies, the newly appointed team boss, faces the challenge of adjusting his management style to navigate the demanding and competitive environment of F1 leadership.
Laurent Mekies was confirmed as Horner’s successor shortly after the British Grand Prix, surprising many within the Formula 1 community. Known for his calm and measured demeanor, Mekies is considerably less confrontational compared to Horner. Despite this, Kravitz indicated that Mekies will have to toughen up to survive in the high-stakes world of team principal politics, where assertiveness often dictates success.
During a Sky Sports F1 broadcast, responding to former F1 driver Anthony Davidson’s remarks about Red Bull missing Horner’s influence on and off the circuit, Kravitz explained the demands Mekies would face among fellow team principals. He emphasized that Mekies must quickly learn to be strategically assertive to maintain Red Bull’s position at the top.
“Piranha school, that’s what Mekies needs. He’s now a member of the piranha club, the club of F1 team principals and he has to learn to be more of a piranha. Or a pirate more than a peacemaker is the other saying,” Kravtiz said [via GP Fans].
So far, Mekies has approached his new role with caution, engaging in discussions with other F1 leaders to build alliances. At the Hungarian Grand Prix, Mekies revealed he had talked with McLaren CEO Zak Brown, suggesting he is working to establish strong relationships within the sport’s managerial circles.
Max Verstappen’s Perspective on Laurent Mekies Taking Charge
Max Verstappen has expressed optimism about working alongside Mekies since the latter’s appointment as Red Bull’s team principal. Speaking during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, Verstappen shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration and his involvement at the team’s base in Milton Keynes.
Visiting the Red Bull factory recently, Verstappen spent time in the simulator and outlined his expectations for the partnership with Mekies.
“I was back at the factory last week to spend some time in the sim with the team,” said Max Verstappen. “I’m looking forward to working closely with Laurent.”
Verstappen’s start under Mekies seemed promising, as he won the Belgian Grand Prix Sprint race. However, he failed to finish on the podium in the main event. The following race at the Hungarian Grand Prix marked a downturn for Verstappen, who encountered difficulties throughout the weekend and finished 10th, his lowest result since the Spanish Grand Prix earlier in the season.
The Challenge of Leading Red Bull After Horner’s Exit
The transition from Christian Horner to Laurent Mekies represents a significant shift for Red Bull Racing. Horner, known for his aggressive and dynamic leadership style, had successfully guided the team through various competitive challenges. Mekies will need to balance his calmer approach with the demands for toughness and political savvy in Formula 1’s harsh leadership environment.
As Mekies settles into his role, his ability to adapt and assert authority will likely determine Red Bull’s continued dominance, especially with Verstappen aiming to defend and extend his world championship titles. The early results suggest a period of adjustment, but Mekies’ engagement with other key figures in F1 indicates he is preparing to take on the pressures of being part of the so-called “piranha club.”