Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has revealed that Max Verstappen pledged his loyalty to the Milton Keynes-based squad on his first day at the helm.
The Frenchman replaced long-standing boss Christian Horner in July, in the days following the British Grand Prix and when the speculation surrounding Verstappen's future was at its zenith.
Verstappen was closely linked with a switch to Mercedes, despite being contracted until 2028, when Mekies took charge.
His appointment came during a period in which the Dutchman looked increasingly likely to pursue pastures new, with it being reported he had grown dissatisfied with the situation at the six-time constructors' champions - something that could have contributed to Horner's demise two decades into his tenure.
However, Mekies has explained that the four-time F1 drivers' champion, who has since confirmed he will stay put for 2026, was quick to assure him of his allegiance to the team.
When asked by German publication BILD whether he had to persuade Verstappen to stay, he promptly replied: "No."
Elaborating on his answer, Mekies added: "Max and I never once talked about his future. We didn't need to.
"He came to me on my first day of work and said, 'Forget everything you've read. I am and will stay with Red Bull, and I'm looking forward to the time we have ahead of us together'."
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A simple answer to a complex question
Verstappen lies third in the F1 drivers' championship this season, and whilst mathematically still in the title fight - at 104 points adrift of leader Oscar Piastri - he has no realistic chance of retaining his crown for a fifth consecutive campaign.
With Horner's fraught relationship with the 27-year-old's camp believed to be the catalyst for the Briton's downfall at Red Bull, Mekies pinpointed how he can prevent the same fate befalling him - and prevent Verstappen from leaving the team.
"I can answer the question very simply: We have to build Max a fast car," Mekies said when it was queried how important a strong relationship with the Verstappens is for success at Red Bull.
"If Max has a fast car, everyone will be happy - Max, those around him, and, of course, us too."
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