BY: BEN WOJNOWSKI; STAFF WRITER
The 2026 Formula 1 season has introduced significant changes to the sport, forcing teams and drivers to adapt to a new generation of cars.
Cars are now smaller and lighter, with a greater emphasis on electric power. Drivers must also manage battery usage throughout each lap, adding another challenge to racing. Red Bull faced an additional obstacle after developing its own power unit for the first time rather than relying on an outside manufacturer.
For Verstappen, the transition has not been smooth. On March 7, the rear axle of his RB22 locked up under braking, leaving Verstappen to spin across the gravel trap and into the barrier. The four-time world champion started the Australian Grand Prix from the back of the grid.
He revealed that he heavily considered walking away from F1 during the first few weeks of the season due to the new regulations.
Although the RB22 consistently reached the final round of qualifying, it lacked the pace to compete for pole positions and victories. The struggles represented unfamiliar territory for Red Bull.
However, Verstappen has built a reputation for maximizing the performance of cars that struggle to match the competition.
Verstappen became more comfortable with the RB22 as Red Bull introduced upgrades.
Over his last eight races, Verstappen has finished on the podium seven times, including back-to-back Grand Prix victories.
Verstappen looks to continue his winning ways at the Circuit of the Americas, where he has won four times.
The gap to Mercedes is too large for Red Bull to overcome in the Constructors’ Championship. Verstappen may also no longer be in contention for the Drivers’ Championship. However, the team’s recent performance offers a reason for optimism heading into the 2027 season.
The message to the grid remains clear. Never count Max Verstappen out.
