As rumours swirl about potential weaknesses in Red Bull’s 2026 Formula 1 engine, Helmut Marko remains confident that Max Verstappen’s extraordinary driving ability will more than compensate for any shortfall.
Marko believes that even if there is a shortfall, Verstappen is more than capable of overcoming a deficit of “one or two tenths.”
Next season marks a bold new chapter for Red Bull as they transition to their own power units, a project team principal Christian Horner has described as the “biggest challenge that we’ve taken on in Formula 1.”
With the introduction of new engine regulations, including sustainable fuels, the removal of the MGU-H, and a 50/50 split between electric and internal combustion power, Red Bull is entering uncharted territory.
The road ahead for Red Bull
The team established Red Bull Powertrains in 2021 and later secured a strategic partnership with Ford, leveraging the American manufacturer’s expertise in electrical power, software, and combustion engine development.
Despite acknowledging the scale of the challenge ahead, Horner is optimistic: “In four years, we built a factory and developed an engine, but we’re taking on 75 years of experience with Ferrari and 30 years with HPP (Mercedes High Performance Powertrains), so we have no illusions. The mountain that we have to climb is immense, but, with the right spirit, and the right quality people that we have within the business, it will be achievable.”
Toto Wolff and Zak Brown have been quick to cast doubt on Red Bull’s ability to be competitive from the outset, with Brown stating just last month: “For them, 2026 will be an even bigger challenge. That’s when they come with their own engine for the first time. I don’t remember a team with its own engine being immediately competitive in the first year. That still poses a big question mark.”
Marko thinks differently
However, Marko has dismissed any concerns, placing his trust in Verstappen’s sheer speed and skill to offset any potential disadvantages. “Let’s assume that we are not really at a disadvantage in terms of engine,” he told OE24. “One or two tenths behind are manageable with Max.“
While speculation swirls about Red Bull’s 2026 performance, Verstappen’s future with the team has also been a hot topic. His contract runs until 2028, but there have been whispers of possible moves elsewhere should Red Bull fail to deliver a competitive package.
Marko acknowledged the presence of performance clauses, saying, “There are performance clauses. It’s all speculative. We want the fifth World Championship title in a row, that’s what we’re all focused on. We didn’t manage to do that with [Sebastian] Vettel.”
And what about Verstappen’s future?
Reports suggest Verstappen has attracted interest from other teams, with Aston Martin among those keeping a keen eye on the reigning World Champion. While there’s no indication that he is looking to leave, the possibility of a move remains should Red Bull’s 2026 project falter.
For now, Verstappen remains focused on the present. Asked about Red Bull’s progress with the 2026 car, which is set to undergo significant regulatory changes to create smaller, more agile, and more overtaking-friendly designs, he remains pragmatic.
“Everyone is just pushing flat out,” he said at the F1 75 launch event. “Everyone is doing their best. That’s the only thing that you can do. They’re just working very hard with 2026 as well. Of course, naturally, there is focus on 2026, but at the same time, also, we are focused on this year.”
Addressing concerns about Red Bull Powertrains as a new engine manufacturer, Verstappen admitted he has some questions but remains unfazed. “Yes, but everyone has that. I’m not going to say that it’s going to be super easy to be immediately competitive, but we believe that we can do a good job and I believe what people tell me.”
He also made it clear that he refuses to dwell on uncertainty. “Also, for me, I can stress about it, but it’s just wasting energy. I guess we’ll find out when the car hits the ground running and then we’ll see. I don’t like to be too worried in my life anymore. If it’s bad, it’s bad. If it’s good, it’s good. Life goes on.”
Conclusion
Regardless of what the future holds for Red Bull’s power unit, one thing is certain—Max Verstappen’s driving prowess remains an undeniable asset. Whether he stays to lead Red Bull into their new era or considers his options elsewhere, his talent ensures he will be at the forefront of Formula 1 for years to come.
Feature Image Credit: Red Bull Content Pool
