Red Bull CEO dismisses 'nonsense' claim that Verstappen runs the team
Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff has bluntly dismissed paddock rumors that Max Verstappen holds significant influence over team decisions, calling the idea "nonsense." He clarified that commercial priorities, not the star driver, guide the team's direction, while praising Verstappen's value and long-term potential with the organization.
Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff has forcefully rejected the growing paddock narrative that Max Verstappen has become the de facto authority within the team following the departures of key senior figures. Mintzlaff labeled the suggestion "nonsense," asserting that all agreements are clear and that neither Verstappen nor his camp has made special requests.
Why it matters:
The power dynamic at Red Bull has been under intense scrutiny since the exits of Christian Horner, Helmut Marko, and Adrian Newey. The perception that a star driver could be wielding significant influence over team management decisions challenges the traditional corporate structure and could impact team morale and long-term stability. Mintzlaff's public rebuttal is a clear attempt to re-establish a defined chain of command under new Team Principal Laurent Mekies.
The details:
- In an interview with Dutch media, Mintzlaff directly addressed claims, including those from former champion Nico Rosberg, that the Verstappen camp holds serious sway.
- He emphasized a single, commercial priority governs the team: the "famous can we sell," referring to the core marketing objective of the Red Bull brand.
- Mintzlaff defended Verstappen's character, describing him as "a great guy, not a diva," and praised his unique technical feedback and engineering consultation level.
- The CEO expressed a long-term vision, hoping Verstappen would remain with Red Bull in some capacity even after his driving career ends.
The big picture:
Verstappen recently reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull for the 2026 season, cooling speculation that the internal upheaval might push him toward a rival team. Mintzlaff's comments aim to separate Verstappen's undeniable value as the world's best driver from any misconception of executive control. The message is that while Verstappen is central to on-track success, the operational and commercial leadership of the Milton Keynes squad rests firmly with its appointed management.
What's next:
With the managerial structure now led by Laurent Mekies, the focus for Red Bull shifts to consolidating its competitive position and developing its 2026 car. Mintzlaff's definitive statement draws a line under the speculation, aiming to allow the team to focus on performance rather than politics as it navigates the post-Horner era.