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Gwen Lagrue joining Red Bull from Mercedes would mark a dramatic cultural change at the Milton Keynes outfit. In many ways, he is the complete opposite of his predecessor, Helmut Marko.
Lagrue, who has been serving as the chief driver scout at Mercedes, is set to join Red Bull and lead their driver development programme. He would be effectively replacing Marko, who left the team as chief advisor at the end of 2025.
While the Austrian was a pivotal part of the team’s success, particularly in the 2020s with Max Verstappen, he is more known – or notorious- for his brutal way of handling young drivers. Several drivers were signed and axed under his tenure, many of whom without having time to prove themselves.
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Gwen Lagrue’s relaxed approach would never have seen Red Bull sack Liam Lawson – he will end Helmut Marko’s ruthless culture
Marko’s most brutal sacking was that of Liam Lawson in 2025, with the New Zealander lasting just two races at Red Bull. He struggled to adapt to the car and Red Bull’s expectations, which surprised Marko.
He was considerably behind teammate Verstappen and lacked any confidence. But instead of nurturing him and giving him time, he was sent straight back to Racing Bulls at the Japanese GP.
In fact, it was even said that Marko wanted Lawson gone after his debut in Melbourne, but Christian Horner stepped in to give him the next race at Shanghai. That proved to be his last race for Red Bull, but that would never have happened under Lagrue’s leadership.
READ MORE: Who is Racing Bulls F1 driver Liam Lawson? Everything you need to know
The Frenchman has enjoyed incredible success with Mercedes and their driver development programme. Unlike Marko, he has a much more relaxed approach, and the results are there for all to see.
Lagrue has been pivotal to George Russell’s career, giving him the chance to progress at Mercedes and turning him into a potential title contender. Kimi Antonelli is perhaps his best talent, dominating multiple junior championships and currently leading the standings by 45 points in 2026.
He also offered Esteban Ocon the chance to continue his F1 career after losing his seat at Racing Point, and personally helped Alex Albon after he lost his Red Bull backing. Lagrue wants to teach his drivers and help them develop.
What would Liam Lawson have achieved if he was given more time at Red Bull?
He explained to Mercedes’ official website: “A driver who’s 19 or 20 years old has already developed their individual style and habits. That makes it difficult because I don’t want to change the drivers. I want to be able to teach them things.
“We don’t see ourselves as managers – I don’t like the term manager – but consider ourselves responsible for the careers of our young drivers. It’s about commitment, dedication, performance and results. It’s the way we keep questioning ourselves to keep getting better that sets us apart.”
This approach is exactly what Red Bull need. For too long, the team have let go of up-and-coming talents without giving them the right support, and this toxic culture has plagued them.
Lawson pretends he never raced for Red Bull, but if he had been working with Lagrue, his stint may have been far more successful. The Frenchman’s appointment would be great news for the team’s rising stars, as they will be properly supported and given the tools they need to flourish.
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