Max Verstappen has made it clear that he would not swap Laurent Mekies for any other team principal in Formula 1, despite his close relationship with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff. The four-time world champion has praised the Frenchman for his approach to managing Red Bull, insisting that the team already has the right man in charge.

Verstappen rules out replacing Mekies despite Wolff connection

Verstappen has experienced significant changes at Red Bull over the past two seasons, including the departure of Christian Horner, who was replaced by Mekies in July 2025.

The Frenchman arrived from Racing Bulls at a difficult time for the Milton Keynes-based outfit, which was struggling to maintain the dominance it had enjoyed during Verstappen's four consecutive championship-winning campaigns.

Since taking charge, Mekies has overseen an improvement in Red Bull's competitiveness, although the team has been unable to challenge Mercedes consistently throughout the 2026 season.

Despite the gap between the two teams, Verstappen has no desire to see another figure take over from Mekies: “If someone asked me which team boss I would swap him for from the paddock, there wouldn’t be one,” he told Sport Bild.

Photo: Race Pictures

The statement is particularly interesting given Verstappen's long-standing relationship with Wolff, who has previously expressed his interest in bringing the Dutchman to Mercedes.

Speculation about a potential move intensified during Red Bull's struggles, with Wolff openly discussing Verstappen as a possible option for the German manufacturer. However, the Dutchman has remained with Red Bull, where he is now working alongside Mekies as the team attempts to close the performance gap to Mercedes.

Wolff has established himself as one of the most successful team principals in Formula 1 history, overseeing Mercedes' run of eight consecutive Constructors' Championships between 2014 and 2021. Nevertheless, Verstappen's preference is firmly with the man currently leading Red Bull.

Verstappen explains why Mekies is the right man for Red Bull

The Dutchman also discussed his personal relationship with Wolff, acknowledging that the pair have maintained a positive connection despite competing for rival teams.

However, when discussing Mekies, Verstappen focused on the Frenchman's character and the relationship they have developed away from the circuit.