Mekies praises Hadjar's season

Laurent Mekies, director of the Red Bull Formula 1 team, said French driver Isack Hadjar had a season that exceeded expectations, according to AFP. Mekies highlighted Hadjar's quick integration into the team and his strong performance, even after a six-week absence due to a wrist injury.

Mekies extends contract with Red Bull

Mekies recently signed a five-year contract extension with Red Bull, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him. He said this would allow the team to continue its work in "serenity" and emphasized that the extension reflects confidence in their long-term vision.

Red Bull's progress and challenges

Mekies noted that the team has made significant progress in the last 15 months, with eight victories and improvements despite challenges, especially with the new engine. He stressed the importance of stabilizing drivers and teams as part of their ongoing development.

Team's resilience and comeback

Mekies praised the team's resilience and determination, saying their never-give-up mindset led to a strong comeback in the second half of 2025 and a solid performance this season. While the comeback was not as dramatic as in previous years, he called it significant, especially as it was the team's first season with its own engine.

Verstappen's role in team success

Mekies praised Max Verstappen, calling him an extraordinary element of the team. He highlighted Verstappen's speed, technical understanding, and dedication to motorsport, as well as his approachable and direct communication style, which helps the team progress faster than its competitors.