Overview
- SPORT BILD, as cited by BILD, reports Max Verstappen can unilaterally leave after 2026 if he is not at least second in the drivers’ standings by the summer break, with an even easier trigger in 2027 if he is not leading then.
- Red Bull’s Oliver Mintzlaff is quoted expressing confidence that Verstappen will stay, despite the reported clause in the deal that runs through 2028.
- Ford performance chief Mark Rushbrook says the Red Bull–Ford Powertrains project has met internal targets and remains on schedule, stressing the team intends to fight for wins immediately.
- Rival bosses caution that matching established engine makers remains uncertain, with Mercedes’ Toto Wolff likening Red Bull’s task to climbing Mount Everest.
- Attention now turns to Red Bull’s Detroit car presentation and the first on-track runs in Barcelona and Bahrain, which are expected to reveal the engine’s true competitiveness.