Red Bull is planning a major overhaul for its sister F1-team, Alpha Tauri. In 2024, the Faenza team will be headed by Ferrari Sporting Director Laurent Mekies instead of the current Franz Tost. The Scuderia, on the other hand has hired Milton Keynes engineers for 2024. Maranello seems to have set out its conditions for the smooth transfer of Alpha Tauri’s future team boss.
Ferrari has now recovered from the initial embarrassment it felt after Mekies announced his move. According to, Ferrari has gained leverage against Red Bull by demanding the immediate release of technicians who want to move from Milton Keynes and Maranello. Laurent could stay longer at Ferrari than the world champions had anticipated.
In Monaco, Red Bull Team principal Christian Horner met Ferrari supremo John Elkann. Both men are said to have discussed conditions of exchanging personnel. Ferrari’s Sporting Director did not seem concerned about the delays. Laurent is confident that the process will be completed soon.
Laurent Mekies has a 100% commitment to Ferrari
Mekies stated that he will continue to concentrate on his role in Maranello so long as the 46 year old remains a member of the Scuderia. He stated, “The decision is not yet made.” As long as I am wearing the Ferrari red uniform, my commitment is 100% to Ferrari “.. The 46-year old is a key part of Red Bull’s plan to revitalize Alpha Tauri.
Laurent Mekies appears to have become a pawn for a larger game between these two F1 giants. Ferrari is using the 46-year old to quickly transition Red Bull’s personnel. Red Bull, on the other hand, is in a difficult situation of having to get the marquee from its sister team and potentially allow its rivals to boost their development.
Laurent Mekies transfer to Alpha Tauri is now a bigger issue. Red Bull may be keen to have Mekies lead Alpha Tauri immediately in 2024. But that will come at a price. The cost is that Red Bull allows its staff to leave for its arch-rival. Christian Horner’s decision to make the deal will determine whether or not the sister Red Bull team is affected.
