Laurent Mekies assures that Red Bull attracts many drivers despite rumors surrounding Max Verstappen. The Frenchman, however, displays a very clear priority.
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As the future of Max Verstappen continues to fuel speculation, Laurent Mekies reminded that the driver market does not work in one direction.
According to the Red Bull team principal, while the best teams naturally seek to attract great talents, they are also regularly approached by drivers eager to join their ranks.
“Good drivers call us too”
The transfer market could become active in the coming weeks, particularly depending on the decision Verstappen makes regarding his future.
The four-time world champion is regularly linked with several teams, even though he is still under contract with Red Bull.
Questioned about this situation, Mekies recalled that solicitations worked both ways.
“It works in both directions.”
The Frenchman believes it is logical that Verstappen is courted.
“It’s perfectly normal for Max to receive calls from everyone, as he is the best driver in the world.”
But Red Bull is not to be outdone.
“In the same way, when you are a top team, you also receive calls from many very good drivers. That’s perfectly natural.”
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Verstappen remains the priority
Despite the numerous rumors, Mekies assures that this media agitation does not disturb the team.
“Does it distract us? Not really.”
The objective remains above all to make the RB22 as competitive as possible.
“Our priority is to make the car as fast as possible. That’s how you keep the best driver in the world.”
Hadjar also at the heart of the project
The Red Bull boss took the opportunity to reaffirm his confidence in Isack Hadjar.
The Frenchman has been impressive since his arrival and, for Mekies, the duo formed with Verstappen represents the ideal combination for the seasons to come.
“We also see Isack’s enormous progress alongside Max.”
He concludes without leaving any doubt about his intentions.
“For us, it’s the ideal duo and we are doing everything possible to keep them.”
Despite the numerous speculations surrounding Verstappen and the expected movements in the driver market, Red Bull therefore displays a serene discourse. The Austrian team assures that it has a car attractive enough to arouse the interest of many drivers, while affirming that its absolute priority remains to keep the Verstappen-Hadjar tandem in the long term.
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