Red Bull engineers listen to Verstappen more than they do the data!

18:24, 15 Sep

Updated: 23:03, 15 Sep

byNorberto Mujica

Red Bull Racing's top advisor Helmut Marko has revealed Red Bull engineers are listening more to Max Verstappen instead of 'blindly' relying on the data stemming from the simulator.

Max Verstappen strolls along the F1 paddock

“The whole technical team is more open to discussing things, and they are not blindly taking what the simulation says.”

- Helmut Marko

“The engineers are listening more to the driver,” Marko said to GPblog.

“If you have such a fast and experienced driver, I think that’s the right way.

“He has to drive it, and it was important that our top speed is improving, which we saw we could go away or drive away from the McLarens. And also some other changes, the driver’s input was recognised.

“The whole technical team is more open to discussing things, and they are not blindly taking what the simulation says.”

Marko's comments highlight another shift in terms of how the team dynamics have evolved following Christian Horner's departure, and Laurent Mekies' arrival.

Recently the Austrian complimented the Frenchman on the new atmosphere within the team, and for being a top-level technical individual as well, which according to Marko, could be what is required to succeed in modern day Formula One.

Max Verstappen celebrates Monza win. Photo by: RacePictures.

Mekies' integration pivotal for Red Bull's future

With Mekies helping turn the team around by improving the way they work, the way the technical staff and Verstappen communicate, as well as how the team approaches practice sessions, 2026 then, in turn, takes on a much more promising outlook.

If the team can make such a U-turn in terms of competitiveness in a matter of four race weekends, then regardless of how they start next year, a quick reaction in terms of improvements against their rivals should be expected.

Next year Red Bull will also take the plunge as engine manufacturers for the first time, and alongside Ford, the Austrian team is working at maximum capacity to deliver the best engines it possibly can in a bid to complete the Mount Everest climb.