Formula 1 is a sport where momentum and confidence can transform a team’s fortunes overnight. Some squads ride high on a successful weekend, while others use tough results to fuel introspection and innovation. One figure who consistently demonstrates composure, regardless of circumstance, is Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Visa Cash App RB (VCARB). Following a weekend of mixed results in Mexico City, Mekies provided insight into his team's mindset and strategic outlook—a masterclass in level-headed leadership that deserves attention from fans and rivals alike.
During the Mexican Grand Prix weekend, VCARB showed flashes of genuine speed: strong performances in practice and qualifying, notably from Daniel Ricciardo, reminded the paddock of the team’s potential. Ricciardo’s sixth-place finish in qualifying—the best-ever for the rebranded RB outfit—was a statement, especially considering the relentless competition among the midfield pack. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda’s charge through the field was a testament to the car’s underlying pace. Despite the positives, VCARB walked away with fewer points than hoped, with Tsunoda leaving empty-handed after an eventful recovery drive—and Mekies was candid in his assessment.
Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities or external factors, Mekies is determined to stick to the team’s strategic blueprint. “Consistency is crucial in F1,” the Frenchman insists. “Yes, there are weekends when you don’t necessarily convert your speed into points, but panic reactions do not build lasting success.” It’s an approach that resonates with F1 aficionados: building a competitive team is a marathon, not a sprint, and resilience is often the difference-maker under the harsh spotlight of elite motorsport.
VCARB’s current trajectory is noteworthy, especially considering their evolution from a perennial backmarker to a credible threat in the ultra-competitive midfield. The team’s technical development has progressed rapidly: with a string of upgrades throughout the season, they now regularly challenge established teams like Williams, Haas, and even occasionally Aston Martin. Mekies attributes this improvement to a “data-driven, calm approach” and a refusal to be swayed by short-term fluctuations. Instead of radical overhauls after a tough race, the engineers and strategists double down on incremental progress—a philosophy that has long-term benefits.
One of the standout stories from Mexico was Ricciardo’s performance. Returning to the grid with newfound confidence, the Australian’s energy is infectious within the team. His ability to wring performance from the car, especially in difficult conditions, underscores why VCARB were keen to offer him another chance. Tsunoda, too, has matured remarkably, providing consistent feedback and delivering strong results. Their dynamic is a potent mix of experience and youth, creating a healthy competitive atmosphere, which Mekies believes is fundamental to pushing the entire outfit forward.
As the season heads into a decisive run of flyaway races, every point matters in the constructors’ standings. Yet, for VCARB, it’s not just about the scorecards. Mekies has set his sights on “process-driven progress”—perfecting pit stops, optimizing strategies, and refining every detail. The focus is on executing flawless weekends, knowing well that consistency breeds results. In the cutthroat environment of F1, it’s easy for teams to be sidetracked by the noise of social media, media speculation, or the pendulum swings of performance; but Mekies and his squad refuse to be distracted.
For Hungarian Formula 1 fans—and the wider global audience—the VCARB story is a fascinating sub-plot in this year’s championship. Their calm determination, steady rise, and unwillingness to deviate from their core principles makes them a team to watch. Mekies’ leadership reminds us that resilience and patience, combined with the relentless pursuit of perfection, still count for something in the turbocharged world of Grand Prix racing. As the lights go out for the remaining races, one can expect VCARB to keep pushing boundaries—and perhaps spring a surprise or two in the weeks ahead.
