Mercedes confirmed the departure of Gwen Lagrue as its junior driver programme boss, announcing that he will join Red Bull as its Formula 1 junior programme director.

The move, reported over the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, was followed by a farewell message from Mercedes, praising Lagrue’s contributions to drivers such as George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.

Red Bull welcomed Lagrue, naming him director of its junior programme and reporting to team principal and CEO Laurent Mekies. The role fills the vacancy left by Helmut Marko’s retirement at the end of last year, a long‑time driver advisor.

Lagrue reflected on eleven years at Mercedes, noting a new challenge and growth, and highlighted the programme’s success in promoting Esteban Ocon, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli to Formula 1.

The move underscores the competitive nature of driver development in F1, with both teams aiming to nurture the next generation of talent.