On the eve of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Max Verstappen displays a mixture of satisfaction and caution regarding the level of Red Bull RacingBefore the first round of the championship on the circuit ofAlbert Park CircuitThe Dutchman believes his team has laid a good foundation… but is still far from being fully ready to compete for victory.
Verstappen : " An encouraging but not decisive pre-season.
After the winter tests, Verstappen acknowledges that the team has done a solid job in understanding the new car.
"We had a pretty good preseason. The learning curve was significant and we covered a lot of kilometers."
However, the four-time world champion remains cautious about the car's true performance level.
"In terms of performance, I don't yet know exactly where we stand. I think we still have a lot of work to do to be at the forefront."
A realistic assessment as F1 enters a new technical era in 2026.
One obsession: to get back to the front of the pack…
Last year, Verstappen came incredibly close to a fifth consecutive world title. The Dutchman ultimately missed out by just two points against Land Norris, pilot of McLaren, after an extremely competitive season.
This experience strengthens the pilot's determination today. Red Bull.
"If we really want to fight at the front, we need to be faster. That's clear."
For VerstappenThe objective remains simple: to continue to progress throughout the season.
"We are positive about the work done, but we know we still need to improve the car."
A new in-house engine for Red Bull…
The 2026 season also marks a major milestone for the Milton Keynes team. For the first time, Red Bull is using a power unit developed in-house by Red Bull PowertrainsIn collaboration with Ford Motor Company, after the end of the partnership with Honda.
Verstappen he says he is particularly proud of this project which was launched several years ago.
« It's incredible to see how this project has evolved over time. Honestly, I felt a lot of pride getting into the car.
Even though the driver insists: the team still wants to improve.
« This isn't a criticism. It's simply our mentality: we always want to do better.
Hadjar, a new teammate under pressure…
Another important change for Red Bull This season: the arrival of the Frenchman Isack Hadjar, promoted since Racing Bulls to replace Yuki Tsunoda.
At only 21 years, Hadjar approaches this new stage with enthusiasm, but also with caution, especially after his accident during the formation lap in Melbourne during his first appearance in F1.
"This is a very exciting new adventure. I'm looking forward to seeing the progress we'll make throughout the season."
The Frenchman remains clear-headed about the first races.
"If we finish the race, that will already be a very good start considering the potential reliability issues."
Nevertheless, Hadjar does not hide his ambition:
« We have a good car. I obviously hope to aim for a podium finish… but we'll see where we really stand.
A start to the season marked by high uncertainty
Between new regulations, a new engine and a renewed driver duo, Red Bull approaches the 2026 season with many unknowns.
One thing is certain: if Max Verstappen wants to return to the top of the championship, he repeats it himself, the Red Bull still needs to take another step.
