Max at Hungaroring: 'Working on improving the car never stopped'

Published on 31 July 2025 by Stefan Meens

Ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen answered questions from the international media in the Hungaroring paddock as part of the customary Thursday press sessions.

One of the main topics discussed was the Dutchman future. “It was interesting to see all those beautiful stories, but I never respond to these”, said Max. “My focus has always been to improve our performance and work on ideas for next year with the team. For me it was always clear that I would stay at Red Bull. That’s been the feeling within the team, because the only thing we talk about is improving our car. That never stopped.”

One of the biggest recent changes within Oracle Red Bull Racing, is the appointment of Laurent Mekies as team principal. “We’ve only just started together, but I really appreciate his way of working. He is very motivated and constantly asks the right questions, both to the team and myself. It’s great to see that. It’ll be difficult to see the effect of it this year, but hopefully we see his input next year or the following years. I’m looking forward to it.”

On the topic of 2026, the reigning world champion remains realistic: “Nobody knows where they are regarding next year. It’ll be difficult to take the fight to McLaren this year; the fight with Ferrari and Mercedes is already difficult enough. But we can sill learn a lot about this year’s cars. Even though next year’s cars will be different, you can still implement things for next year.”

Power management appears to become a crucial part of racing under the new technical regulations. “I expect that to be the case at some races more than others. But that’s already happening. We’ll have to see if it’s positive or negative.”

Finally, Max is asked about his own Verstappen.com GT3 project with Thierry Vermeulen and Chris Lulham contesting the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup round at Magny Course in a Ferrari 296 GT3. “After my Formula 1 career, I’ll probably focus on endurance racing. That’s why I’m already working on this GT3 project and learn what is needed to be successful as a racing team. Making mistakes makes you better. I wanted to start as soon as I could to make sure it’s on the right track, with the right people.”

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