Overview
- Red Bull power unit chief Ben Hodgkinson says a 2014‑style engine gap is unlikely and warns the larger risk for 2026 lies with the all‑new chassis and active‑aero package.
- Team principal Laurent Mekies pledges an “incredibly high” in‑season development rate and cautions against expecting instant parity as the in‑house Ford‑partnered unit debuts.
- Helmut Marko predicts a Mercedes‑powered driver could lead the new era and casts doubt on Max Verstappen’s 2026 title prospects, citing potential early performance gaps.
- Sport Bild reports a performance clause could let Verstappen leave Red Bull if he is not P1 or P2 by mid‑season, with separate German reports saying Mercedes requested an NLS date change linked to his Nürburgring 24h plans; organisers confirm a request was received.
- Verstappen says a “very negative” experience with the new rules could hasten an exit yet reiterates his goal to see out his Red Bull deal through 2028, with Barcelona and Bahrain running set to reveal early form.