Red Bull Racing has reinforced its support for Max Verstappen’s position in the debate about the future Formula 1 power unit regulations. Laurent Mekies, the team principal, stated that the category needs to find a definitive solution to the problems identified in the current regulations, avoiding the topic continuing to generate discussions in the coming years.
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The subject gained relevance after criticism from several drivers, but especially from Verstappen, regarding the rules planned for the new generation of engines. The four-time world champion has already expressed concern about the current regulations and indicated that the proposed changes are important for the future of the category.
Speaking after the Canadian GP, Mekies showed confidence that power unit manufacturers will be able to reach a consensus. According to him, there is an expectation that the majority of those involved will support changes that can improve the spectacle on track: “I am optimistic that we will find the right solutions. I am optimistic that we will find a majority of people agreeing to improve the races,” said the Red Bull executive.
Asked about the obstacles to reaching an agreement among manufacturers, Mekies highlighted that the collective interest of Formula 1 must prevail over any individual gains or losses in competitiveness. For him, all participants will need to assess the situation thinking about the benefit of the category as a whole.
“When we talk about what is important for the sport, I believe that at some point everyone will put aside what this may or may not do to their relative competitiveness, to take a step in the right direction for the category. I think, in the end, we will reach that point,” he said.
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The executive was also asked about the proposal that foresees a 60% split for the electric part and 40% for the combustion engine in the 2027 rules. However, Mekies avoided focusing on specific numbers and emphasized that the most important thing is to permanently fix the existing problems.
According to him, the discussion should not revolve around the volume of investments needed to implement the changes. In his view, the size and importance of Formula 1 justify the search for a comprehensive solution that eliminates current concerns.
“I don’t think the level of investment is relevant compared to the size of the category. I think we should fix this once and for all and not turn this issue into a recurring topic,” he said. Mekies continued, highlighting that the category is experiencing a positive moment on the tracks, but believes there are still points that need to be improved: “We are seeing fantastic battles on track. There are many positive and excellent aspects in what we are seeing, but there is a part we want to improve and we must fight for that,” concluded the Red Bull Racing chief.
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