Mar.28 (GMM) Laurent Mekies held talks with Max Verstappen after the Dutchman’s decision to eject a journalist from his Suzuka press session sparked internal unease at Red Bull.
According to Germany’s Bild newspaper, Mekies sought out Verstappen in the paddock on Friday morning, listening to his explanation but also making clear the team does not support removing media from its hospitality.
The report said the incident “caused internal displeasure at Red Bull” and left Mekies “walking a fine line,” given Verstappen’s importance to the team both on and off track.
While the four-time world champion is not expected to face any formal sanction, the matter is now considered closed following the discussion.
It comes at a difficult time for Red Bull, which has started the 2026 season on the back foot, struggling with an overweight car and inconsistent performance.
Insiders suggest the car could be up to 20kg above the minimum weight, with meaningful reductions unlikely until the summer.
“It’s not the first time we’ve faced such challenges,” team boss Mekies said. “I’m confident we’ll get back on track.”
Verstappen himself admitted the team is chasing problems in circles at present.
“There’s a lot of work to do. We need to understand why we’re having such big problems right now,” he said.
“We’re trying to fix one thing, but that way we’ll immediately create another problem.”
Off track, Verstappen has continued to vent frustration by testing and racing GT3 machinery, including his own team’s Mercedes-AMG at the Nordschleife – re-fuelling speculation about a possible future move to Mercedes in F1.
Former driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes Red Bull is giving its star unusual freedom.
“It’s cool that Max can do this. On the one hand, it’s cool, but on the other hand, it’s also surprising that Red Bull is letting him do this,” he said.
“Red Bull is in a position where they say ‘yes’ so as not to lose Max.”
Montoya went further, suggesting Verstappen’s long-term future may lie elsewhere.
“I think they’re going to lose Max anyway. “I wouldn’t be surprised. Just look at the car he was driving last week,” he said, referring to the Mercedes GT3 car.
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES