Max Verstappen the Boss at Red Bull? « Absurd, » Says Mintzlaff
Oliver Mintzlaff firmly rejected suggestions that Verstappen runs the organization, calling such claims « absurd » while emphasizing that the energy drink brand remains the only boss.
« There’s only one boss with us, and that’s that famous can we sell. »Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull CEO
The « Absurd » Boss Theory
When asked about the perception that Verstappen has become powerful enough to essentially be the « boss » at Red Bull and can therefore do whatever he wants, Oliver Mintzlaff didn’t hesitate to shut down this narrative.
« Yes, that’s nonsense, » Mintzlaff told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. « I can tell you that all agreements are clear, and he’s never made a single request of me. The same goes for his manager and father. »
Mintzlaff’s Clear Position
« Max is clear about what he wants, and that’s okay, because he’s the best driver in the world. But there’s only one boss with us, and that’s that famous can we sell. Max is a great guy, not a diva. »
The Red Bull GmbH CEO of Corporate Projects and New Investments emphasized that while Verstappen’s input is valued highly, there remains a clear hierarchical structure at Red Bull Racing.
This statement came as Red Bull faces questions about potential « Verstappen dependence »—the idea that the team has become so reliant on their four-time world champion that he effectively controls the organization.
The Verstappen Dependence Question
The « Verstappen dependence » theory has gained traction for understandable reasons. Beyond his four world championships with Red Bull, there’s the observable « second seat syndrome » at the team—the pattern where Verstappen’s teammates struggle immensely, unable to flourish in his shadow.
From Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon to Sergio Perez and most recently Liam Lawson, no Red Bull driver has successfully challenged Verstappen over a sustained period. This dominance naturally raises questions about how much the team caters specifically to him versus maintaining equal treatment.
« I can’t speak on behalf of other teams. But Max is no longer 15 years old. He’s old and wise enough to express what he wants himself. »Oliver Mintzlaff on Verstappen’s maturity
Furthermore, Verstappen enjoys freedoms at Red Bull that extend beyond typical driver responsibilities. He competes in sim racing outside Formula One, maintains his own schedule preferences, and has demonstrated willingness to speak his mind about team matters.
No Fear of Performance Clauses
Perhaps the most significant revelation from Mintzlaff’s interview concerns Verstappen’s contract, specifically performance clauses that might allow him to leave if Red Bull’s competitiveness declines.
« What’s important to say is that I’m not afraid of any performance clause in his contract. »
This is a bold declaration considering the context. The 2026 season represents Formula One’s biggest technical reset in decades, with completely new power unit and chassis regulations arriving simultaneously. Red Bull Powertrains will supply engines for the first time, having taken over from Honda in partnership with Ford.
The 2026 Uncertainty
« Nobody knows; we might even be the second or third team. I know we have incredibly good people. And it’s not just about the engine, but also about the chassis. Christian Horner has also brought in a lot of good people in recent years. » – Mintzlaff
The uncertainty is palpable. Red Bull dominated from 2022 through most of 2024 but struggled in 2025, losing both championships to McLaren and Lando Norris. Whether Red Bull can hit the ground running with their own power unit in 2026 remains unknown.
The Loyalty Question
Mintzlaff’s conviction about Verstappen’s long-term future at Red Bull goes beyond contractual obligations. The CEO believes Verstappen will finish his entire Formula One career with the team—and perhaps continue beyond that.
- Deep Roots: Verstappen has been with Red Bull since 2015/2016
- Four Championships: All won with Red Bull Racing
- Unique Freedom: Can pursue sim racing and maintain own schedule
- Direct Communication: Clear agreements without excessive demands
- Improved Atmosphere: Team culture has shifted positively
- Future Role: Potential post-driving consultant position
« When I talk to him, I understand that his goal is to finish his career with us, » Mintzlaff revealed. « Again: I’m sure he’ll stay with us forever. If he ever retires as a driver—I hope not too soon—I hope he stays with us in another role. »
The Atmosphere Argument
One element Mintzlaff repeatedly emphasized is the improved atmosphere at Red Bull. This reference is significant given the tumultuous 2025 season that saw internal conflicts, the departure of design legend Adrian Newey to Aston Martin, and questions about team principal Christian Horner’s position.
« Staff will always leave if a competitor makes a good offer, » Mintzlaff acknowledged. « But I also think many people see a different atmosphere here now. »
For Verstappen, who has been vocal about valuing team unity and clear communication, this cultural shift might matter as much as technical performance.
The 2026 Uncertainty
Despite Mintzlaff’s confidence, the 2026 season remains genuinely uncertain for Red Bull. They’re entering an era where Red Bull Powertrains supplies engines for the first time in partnership with Ford, the first full year under new team principal Laurent Mekies following departures of both Helmut Marko and Adrian Newey, and a complete technical reset with both chassis and power unit regulations changing simultaneously.
Mintzlaff’s Confidence
Heavy investment in Red Bull Powertrains, recruited extensively, improved atmosphere, Verstappen values effort and commitment, unique position and freedom.
The Genuine Risks
First-year power unit rarely perfect, leadership changes, biggest technical reset ever, Verstappen’s competitiveness demands winning, 2026 is « pivotal year ».
Verstappen himself has made 2026 a « pivotal year » for his future, both in Formula One generally and at Red Bull specifically. His public statements suggest he’s keeping options open, even while his contract runs through 2028.
The « No Diva » Characterization
Mintzlaff’s repeated insistence that Verstappen is « not a diva » addresses another narrative that has developed around the champion driver. Given his dominance, success, and occasional blunt comments, some have characterized Verstappen as demanding or difficult.
« Max is a great guy, not a diva, » Mintzlaff stated firmly. « I can tell you that all agreements are clear, and he’s never made a single request of me. »
This characterization contrasts with the perception that Verstappen wields outsized power at Red Bull. Mintzlaff’s point is that Verstappen doesn’t need to make demands or throw tantrums because the team already knows what he needs to succeed and provides it proactively.
The Brand as Boss
Mintzlaff’s most memorable line from the interview was his declaration about who actually runs Red Bull Racing: « There’s only one boss with us, and that’s that famous can we sell. »
This statement serves multiple purposes. First, it establishes clear hierarchy—Red Bull GmbH, the energy drink company, owns and controls Red Bull Racing. Second, it reminds everyone that the Formula One team exists primarily to market Red Bull products globally.
Third, and perhaps most importantly, it signals to Verstappen and everyone else that no individual—no matter how successful or important—supersedes the organization itself.
Conclusion
Oliver Mintzlaff’s interview with De Telegraaf provides insight into how Red Bull views its relationship with Max Verstappen. The CEO firmly rejected the narrative that Verstappen runs the team, calling such suggestions « absurd » and emphasizing that Red Bull GmbH—the energy drink company—remains firmly in charge.
Yet Mintzlaff’s comments also reveal deep respect for Verstappen’s abilities and confidence in his loyalty. The CEO expressed no fear of performance clauses, predicted Verstappen will finish his career at Red Bull, and suggested a post-driving role for the champion.
This balance—acknowledging Verstappen’s importance while maintaining organizational authority—represents Red Bull’s approach to managing their star driver. They provide the support, freedom, and resources Verstappen needs to succeed, but within a structure where the brand ultimately directs the team.
As 2026 approaches with its massive technical changes and uncertainty, this relationship will be tested. Whether Mintzlaff’s confidence proves justified depends on how Red Bull Powertrains performs and whether the team can quickly adapt to revolutionary new regulations.