Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has issued a stark warning about Red Bull's preparations for the upcoming season, predicting a challenging start to pre-season testing.
Garage Time Over Track Time Predicted
Max Verstappen has openly stated he expects the Red Bull team to spend significantly more time working in the garage than running on the circuit during the initial 2026 pre-season tests. The first sessions are scheduled to begin at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on Monday 26 January 2026.
The Dutch driver's apprehension stems from the seismic shift in technical regulations for the 2026 campaign. For the first time in its history, the Red Bull powertrains division is constructing its own F1 power unit, a project undertaken in partnership with the American automotive titan, Ford.
Uncertainty Over New Car and Engine
Verstappen, who was narrowly denied a fifth consecutive drivers' championship last season, expressed clear uncertainty about the team's new package. The combination of a brand-new chassis built to fresh aerodynamic rules and a completely unfamiliar engine represents the biggest engineering challenge Red Bull has faced since becoming a works team.
"With so many new elements, it's impossible to know exactly how we'll perform straight out of the box," the champion's comments implied. His contract with the Milton Keynes-based squad runs until the conclusion of the 2028 season, showing a long-term commitment despite the anticipated short-term hurdles.
New Livery and Teammate Reveal
Amid the technical overhaul, the team is also set for changes in its driver line-up and appearance. Isack Hadjar will be promoted to join Verstappen at the senior team, marking the reigning champion's fourth different teammate in just 15 months.
Furthermore, Red Bull plans to unveil the colour scheme for its 2026 challenger in Detroit, USA, a nod to its new partnership with Ford. This strategic reveal highlights the growing commercial and technical links between the two giants.
A Season of Transition Ahead
The 2026 season is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for Red Bull Racing. While Verstappen's prediction suggests a potentially rocky beginning in Barcelona, the team's long-term goal is clear: to master the new regulations and return to the forefront of the sport. The coming weeks will reveal whether their bold move to develop an in-house power unit with Ford will pay off or require a period of painful development on the grand prix stage.
