P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Verstappen’s boss admits Red Bull already behind rivals
Red Bull’s team principal Laurent Mekies has acknowledged that they are lagging behind their Formula 1 rivals as they prepare for the 2026 season. Unlike Ferrari, who opted to skip the 2025 season in favor of focusing on the 2026 regulations, Red Bull continued to develop their 2025 car post-summer break.
Mekies defended their decision, stating that they preferred understanding and addressing the issues with their current car rather than solely banking on future improvements for 2026. Despite potential time lost for the 2026 project, he emphasized the importance of strengthening the team and their processes.
The focus on development in 2025 aimed to enhance their methodology, knowledge of performance factors, and overall team cohesion, despite the upcoming rule changes. Mekies admitted that while they may not have the fastest car in 2026, the approach has united the team and reinforced their collective strategy.
The impact of delaying work on the 2026 car could have significant consequences on Red Bull’s competitiveness in F1, potentially influencing Max Verstappen’s future. Although Verstappen has committed to Red Bull for 2026, speculations arise about his long-term prospects, with Mercedes and Aston Martin emerging as likely contenders for his services.
