Red Bull CEO dismisses 'nonsense' claim that Max Verstappen runs the team

Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff has firmly rejected the notion that Max Verstappen is the de facto "boss" of the Red Bull Formula 1 team, calling the suggestion "nonsense." The statement comes amid a period of significant internal change for the reigning Constructors' champions, who have seen key figures like Christian Horner, Adrian Newey, and Helmut Marko depart in the last year. Mintzlaff emphasized that while Verstappen is clear about his goals, he has never made a single request of the CEO, a stance that also applies to his manager and father, Jos Verstappen.

Why it matters:

The power dynamics within a top F1 team are always under scrutiny, especially when a dominant driver is involved. Pushing back against the narrative that Verstappen dictates team operations is crucial for Red Bull's internal stability and external perception. It reinforces a classic team principle: the organization is bigger than any single individual, even a four-time world champion. Clarifying this hierarchy is essential as the team navigates its new era without several of its long-term pillars.

The details:

• The claim that the Verstappens hold significant sway was notably made by 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg during the past season, adding fuel to external speculation about control within Red Bull.
• In an interview with De Telegraaf, Mintzlaff was direct in his rebuttal: "I can tell you that all agreements are clear, and he's never made a single request of me. The same goes for his manager and father."
• He acknowledged Verstappen's straightforward nature, adding, "Max is clear about what he wants, and that's okay, because he's the best driver in the world."
• Mintzlaff defined the only true "boss" at Red Bull as the commercial imperative, succinctly stated as "the famous can we sell."

Looking ahead:

Beyond the immediate denial, Mintzlaff expressed a strong desire for a lifelong association with Verstappen, whose current contract runs through 2028.

• He praised Verstappen's character, stating, "Max is a great guy, not a diva," and expressed confidence he would "stay with us forever."
• Looking past Verstappen's driving career, Mintzlaff hopes the Dutchman will remain with the team in a consultancy or advisory role, citing his "special" knowledge and feel for a car and his ability to work with engineers at a "very high level."
• This long-term vision is part of Red Bull's strategy to secure its future, even as speculation about Verstappen's F1 career beyond 2026 continues.