Max Verstappen has just 12 points from three races in 2026, and retired from the Chinese Grand Prix with a failure.
Max Verstappen is hopeful for minor improvements to Red Bull’s first in-house F1 engine, but remains unfazed by the new project. Red Bull made the decision to develop a power unit with Ford for the 2026 season, showcasing the new engine at the Australian GP. Despite facing challenges such as engine failures and ERS cooling leaks early in the season, Verstappen is satisfied with the RBPT-Ford unit and seeks enhancements to unleash its full potential. The team aims to optimize engine performance while addressing the weight issues of the RB22 chassis. Verstappen acknowledges the need for better calibration and communication within the engine deployment system, highlighting the ongoing development efforts of the team. Overall, Red Bull is committed to continuous improvement as they navigate the complexities of their new engine project in Formula 1.
