Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko has provided an update on the team's timeline for deciding who will drive alongside Max Verstappen in 2026. The team plans to finalize the decision around September or October.
Why it matters
Four-time champion Max Verstappen has committed to Red Bull for 2026, quashing rumors of a move to Mercedes. However, the identity of his teammate remains unconfirmed, a crucial decision for Red Bull's future constructor championship aspirations and team dynamics.
The big picture
Red Bull has historically faced challenges in finding a consistent and high-performing second driver to complement Verstappen. The current situation involves Yuki Tsunoda, who stepped in alongside Verstappen for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, replacing Liam Lawson after just two race weekends. However, Tsunoda has not yet matched Verstappen's performance, partly due to different car specifications.
The details
- Marko's statement: "We've extended the options, or rather, the drivers have extended them with us. So, around September or October, we want to have a few more races to observe, and then we'll make the decisions," Marko told Sky Germany at Zandvoort.
- Tsunoda's car specification: Tsunoda confirmed a difference in car specification, noting he received a new floor before the summer break and is awaiting final components to match Verstappen's car.
- Tsunoda's perspective: "I understand he's looking for me to show the performance... after I got upgrades, there's some recognition from that performance," Tsunoda said, acknowledging Marko's support but also his straightforward expectation for points. He reiterated his main goal is to stay with Red Bull.
What's next
Red Bull will continue to evaluate potential candidates, including Tsunoda, over the next few months. The team aims to observe driver performances in a few more races before making a definitive announcement regarding Verstappen's 2026 partner by late autumn.