'Disruptive' Verstappen key for Red Bull to crack Hungarian GP code

14:35, 02 Aug

byNorberto Mujica

From FP1 Red Bull Racing have been on the backfoot in Hungary with neither Max Verstappen nor Yuki Tsunoda able to make a good impression. Laurent Mekies, the Austrian team's principal, looks at the Dutchman as an assett to turn the weekend around.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Mekies downplayed any fear at Red Bull Racing that Verstappen would indeed leave the team at the end of the current campaign.

"I don't think there was a real doubt. As far as the team was concerned he's said over and over again that he wants a fast car."

In fact Verstappen's ability to be a voice that pushes forward is only a good thing according to the Frenchman.

"The fact he's said it a bit louder is good for everyone to here but as far as we are concerned, he's always been a part and central to the team."

Max Verstappen has a difficult weekend so far in Hungary

Verstappen is key for Red Bull, particularly in Hungary

Verstappen, now a 4-time world champion, currently on his 11th season in F1 has a plethora of experience that Red Bull benefits from. "It's essential, a huge advantage. He knows when the car has been working and not working."

Particularly in the tough situation Red Bull find themselves in Hungary. "In situations like that it's not a balance issue, we are struggling to find the level of grip and he's a huge help in these situations," Mekies concluded.