P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull has taken on the immense challenge this year of becoming its own power unit supplier, but fans believe it will thrive.
Red Bull has garnered strong support from Formula 1 fans, with many believing their new power unit will boost Max Verstappen’s chances for a fifth drivers’ title. The team has embraced the challenge of becoming its own engine supplier as new regulations kick in for 2026. While Red Bull has technical assistance from Ford, they are primarily reliant on their own capabilities for the upcoming season. Despite efforts to assemble a seasoned team, Red Bull acknowledges they lag behind heavyweight competitors like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda in engine development. Results from a poll suggest confidence among fans in Red Bull’s power unit, with 65.2% backing Verstappen for a title challenge. 24.6% foresee wins for Verstappen but not the championship, while 9.5% predict Red Bull slipping to a midfield team. Interestingly, a tiny 0.7% foresee Red Bull’s potential relegation to a backmarker status. The comprehensive poll results can be viewed below!
