Laurent Mekies has resolutely denied a persistent rumor about Max Verstappen’s new contract with Red Bull. The team principal of the Austrian racing stable responded in Zandvoort to the claim that Verstappen would earn no less than 80 million dollars per year with his new commitment, equivalent to almost 70 million euros. In recent years, it was speculated that Verstappen earns over 60 million dollars per year in salary.
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Red Bull announced prior to the last Dutch Grand Prix that Verstappen is extending the collaboration until 2030. This put an end to months of speculation about a possible move to McLaren or Mercedes. Although financial details have not been officially disclosed, it is assumed that Verstappen has received a salary increase. Various sources report that the Dutchman will earn no less than 80 million dollars per year thanks to his new contract, significantly more than the 60 million he was credited with in recent seasons.
‘We do everything to reward Max Verstappen
During the Zandvoort weekend, former world champion Nico Rosberg presented the rumors to Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies. “Laurent, I also hear that Max’s camp is particularly pleased with the way you have taken over the team, the culture you are bringing in, and how you are moving things forward. So congratulations on that,” the German began in a broadcast on Sky Sports. “Additionally, I hear that his new contract is worth a hefty 80 million dollars per year. I have to ask: is that amount somewhat close? It’s an enormous sum of money.”
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Mekies, who has been calling the shots at Red Bull since Christian Horner’s departure, responded with a smile but left little room for doubt. “Both claims are incorrect,” he stated firmly. “Verstappen has confidence in all two thousand employees in Milton Keynes, in the chassis-side personnel, and everyone working on the powertrain. He knows what our people are capable of, and he has chosen to place his trust in us for the future.” With this, the Frenchman refuted the suggestion that he was personally responsible for Verstappen’s extended stay. Mekies was reluctant to disclose much more about the Dutchman’s salary. “We will do everything to reward Max for his trust,” he continued. “He is much more to us than just the fastest driver in the world, and we will ensure he gets a competitive car as soon as possible.”
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