F1 commentator Will Buxton says Laurent Mekies has finally lifted the Red Bull second‑seat jinx by swapping a cut‑throat atmosphere for genuine support. For my money, his cultural overhaul is the missing piece.
Red Bull has long wrestled with pairing a teammate for four‑time champion Max Verstappen. After Sergio Pérez left for Cadillac, rookie Liam Lawson took the seat in 2025, only to be shunted back to Racing Bulls after two weekends.
On the Up To Speed podcast, Buxton praised Mekies’ modern leadership for letting Hadjar flourish within the squad.
“It seems the curse is fading, not because of Isack’s actions but thanks to Laurent’s cultural shift,” the former F1 TV host observed.
Isack Hadjar – Red Bull Racing
“In Horner’s era and under Helmut Marko, the mantra was that diamonds form under pressure,” he recalled.
“By easing that pressure and creating a safe, happy environment, Isack could step away for nearly two months, recover, and return with a new contract instead of feeling torched.”
“That freedom may now let Isack extract his full potential, making it feel like the alleged curse has finally been lifted.”
Hadjar broke his wrist during the summer break, missed several races, and came back at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix to claim a podium finish.
We want your opinion!?
What would you like to see on our site?
Take our 5 minute survey.
– The Team