New power dynamic at Red Bull? Viaplay experts weigh in

Laurent Mekies was named Red Bull Racing’s team principal following Christian Horner’s dismissal. He made his debut in charge last weekend, prompting reactions from prominent F1 analysts and commentators on the Frenchman’s initial weeks at the helm.

During 'In the slipstream' on Viaplay, both Dutch commentator Nelson Valkenburg and F1 pundit Kees Van de Grint were clear about the course to be sailed.

''I've known Mekies longer than you have, because I've worked with him in two positions,'' began Van de Grint. ''He's super nice, maybe too nice and he's going to listen to Verstappen a lot.''

Valkenburg added: ''That's not a bad thing, because what has happened at Red Bull in recent years is that the technical leadership did not listen to the drivers. Not to Verstappen, but also not to the second driver. From 2023, Verstappen said they are going in the wrong direction.''

Max Verstappen in discussion with Christian Horner

Valkenburg continued: ''Horner and Wache always worked together and that has been broken and with three or words Mekies will understand what is being said.''

Van de Grint was more explicit in his wording: ''I don't know if he understands that, but that's what I mean by being the boss, because Verstappen is going to decide now and that's not bad.''

''The opposite is that Mekies listens he also has his reason to listen. But not Horner, it wasn't Red Bull, it was 'Horner-Racing'. And he determined and had his thoughts about that, that you need a driver. I don't see that Mekies is going to make a better car, but he's going…'', ''listening'', Valkenburg added.

Verstappen points out what is crucial in Hungary

This coming weekend, Verstappen will be hunting for his third win of the season in Hungary. Looking ahead to the race, the Dutchman kept an open mind for a good result, due to the fact that it is difficult to overtake on the Hungaroring, making qualifying a very important factor.

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