Red Bull team boss Laurent Mekies cleared to return for second Bahrain test

Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies will return to the pit wall for the second pre-season test in Bahrain after missing the first session last week due to a minor medical procedure. The Frenchman has recovered sufficiently to travel and resume his on-site duties, with the team confirming his participation for the Wednesday session.

Why it matters:

The stable presence of a team principal is crucial during pre-season testing, a period packed with data analysis, strategic planning, and media obligations. Mekies' swift return ensures continuity in leadership as Red Bull finalizes its preparations for the 2026 season opener, minimizing potential disruption from his brief absence.

The details:

• Mekies was absent from the first three-day test in Bahrain after undergoing what the team described as a minor, routine medical surgery.
• During his absence, he worked remotely while technical director Pierre Waché handled the primary media and trackside responsibilities.
• His return coincides with a driver schedule change: rookie Isack Hadjar is set to drive the RB22 on the opening day of the second test (Wednesday), with Max Verstappen taking over on Thursday.
• Mekies is expected to participate in media sessions during the test, providing his first public comments since the procedure.

What's next:

All focus shifts to the final pre-season test, where Red Bull will aim to complete its program with full leadership back in place. The team's performance and reliability across these final days will set the tone for their 2026 championship campaign, with Mekies' return allowing for direct oversight of the critical final preparations.