Red Bull signals openness to stricter F1 team independence rules

Red Bull is willing to back stricter rules on multi-team ownership in Formula 1, even if those reforms curb the competitive advantages of its own setup with Racing Bulls, team principal Laurent Mekies has indicated.

Speaking at the Canadian Grand Prix, Mekies said the Milton Keynes outfit would not oppose additional safeguards if the sport collectively deems them necessary to ensure genuine independence on the grid.

Why it matters:

The debate over ‘A/B teams’ has intensified, with McLaren CEO Zak Brown pushing for tighter restrictions on strategic alliances. Red Bull’s conciliatory stance could shape future regulations, as its ownership of two teams sits at the center of the controversy. A willingness to accept change might ease tensions but also forces rivals to consider broader partnership rules beyond ownership.

The details:

• Mekies emphasized that the goal is clear: “We all want 11 teams racing independently on track.” He noted Formula 1 has already taken steps to increase independence in recent years.
• He stated that if any stakeholder feels more action is needed, Red Bull “would support” further reforms.
• However, he argued the issue isn’t just about ownership: “There are very many different ways teams are collaborating – power unit, gearbox, suspension supply, partial or full ownerships.”
• Red Bull has no intention of selling Racing Bulls, but Mekies reiterated support for measures that ensure competition remains genuine regardless of corporate ties.

Between the lines:

Mekies’ comments appear calculated – by publicly offering to accept tougher rules, Red Bull positions itself as cooperative, potentially deflecting criticism while remaining confident its current model already complies with the spirit of independence. The real test will come if proposals target shared resources like personnel or intellectual property.

What's next:

The FIA and F1 are expected to review partnership regulations in the coming months. Mekies’ signal suggests Red Bull will not be a roadblock, but any overhaul must address the entire ecosystem of technical alliances – not just its own structure. The outcome could redefine how teams collaborate from 2027 onward.