Max Verstappen has been called "one of the most important pillars" in the Red Bull-Ford's power-unit development for 2026.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Red Bull CEO Laurent Mekies and Ford CEO Jim Farley said the four-times World Champion has provided key insight as the technical partnership grows.
Farley said that retaining Verstappen with the team has been a key strategic move.
The Dutch driver is contracted to the team until 2028, but made heads turn when he linked with a rumoured move to Mercedes - as CEO Toto Wolff seemed to be in the courting process over the summer break.
But Red Bull were sighing with relief with Verstappen confirmed he would be remaining with the team.
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The Ford CEO said; "The way he has provided stability without drama in an environment where we're all just trying to do our jobs. I can really see that in his eyes today versus last year.
"It's one of the great things about Laurent and his team. They all have this deep commitment to each other."
Mekies took over as the Red Bull boss, after Christian Horner's tenure came to an end with his sacking in July.
Farley said Mekies is the right man for the job, amidst the Red Bull-Ford project.
The Red Bull boss also gave his praises to Verstappen for his commitment to the team's development.
"You would be surprised. Max is giving so much to the projects also outside of the car. He's not just asking the numbers".
"He's testing the car in the simulators, he's working with engineers on both sides of the fence to understand how do we develop these 2026 cars - where do we try to get the power? Where do we try to get the downforce? So that's how central to the project he is."
The comments come after Verstappen went from pole to the chequered flag at the Italian Grand Prix - picking up his third win of the season.