New Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has revealed there was never any "real doubt" that Max Verstappen would stay with the Austrian outfit.
Verstappen's future had been a lead talking point across recent months, with the Dutchman having found himself linked to a Mercedes switch.
George Russell and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff both confirmed talks took place; however, Verstappen put all speculation to bed on media day ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The four-time world champion confirmed in Hungary he would remain with Red Bull for 2026, meaning he will enter the new power unit regulations alongside the Milton Keynes-based team.
Despite all the rumours surrounding a possible exit, Mekies has insisted he was never concerned.
"Well no, I don't think there was a real doubt [Verstappen would stay] as far as the team was concerned. Max has been saying it over and over again," Mekies told Sky F1.
"And we know what he wants. He wants a fast car. Now, the fact that he said it a bit louder this time is, I guess it's good for everyone to hear.
"But as far as we are concerned, all year he has always been a part and central to the team."
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Mekies' first weeks leading Red Bull
For Mekies, it has been a remarkable few weeks in the Frenchman's life, following his promotion from Racing Bulls to Red Bull.
He became Red Bull's boss three days after the British Grand Prix, once Christian Horner's axe had been announced.
Mekies has held his new position for almost three weeks, and has been hugely impressed by the team's reaction to his arrival.
"It's still the process we are in, trying to meet as many people in the team as possible. Now it's been two and a half weeks, I think, so the feeling is increasing day after day.
"Our team have been fantastic. They've been so supportive, so open minded, and then it's great. Every time you open a small box, you find great people and a great way to do things.
"And of course, it doesn't always convert into [lap time], but every day that is passing, you get to discover more of the talent that we have, and it gives us huge confidence into the future."
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