P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull is paying a heavy price for a decision made in 2025, as it frantically tries to catch up with F1 pacesetters Mercedes in 2026.
Due to a decision made in 2025, Red Bull is struggling to catch up with Formula 1 leaders Mercedes in the 2026 season, currently sitting in sixth place in the standings after a challenging start.
The team’s late development of the RB21 has resulted in underperformance, with Max Verstappen finishing eighth in Japan, clearly behind the race winner Kimi Antonelli.
Team Principal admits that the decision to focus on the previous season’s car has set Red Bull up for failure at the beginning of the 2026 season.
This determination to solve 2025 car issues has impacted the team’s competitiveness, with urgent upgrades needed to turn the tide in the current season.
Red Bull’s struggles in 2026 may be attributed to choices made in the previous season, but the team remains determined to improve and overcome the challenges they are facing.
Mekies’ open and honest remarks shed light on the team’s fighting spirit and ongoing efforts to understand and address their car’s performance issues.
