Hinchcliffe: Verstappen's 'Max Factor' undeniable amid RB22 struggles

Former IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe has singled out Max Verstappen as one of the standout performers of the 2026 Formula 1 season, insisting the "Max Factor" remains real despite the challenges posed by the troublesome RB22. While Verstappen has managed several podium finishes for Red Bull Racing, his Hungary runner-up spot—finishing 15 seconds behind Lando Norris—showcased his ability to extract results from a car that has struggled with balance all year.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's reputation as one of the grid's elite drivers is being tested by a difficult campaign, yet his performances are keeping Red Bull relevant in a season where McLaren has set the pace. With the Dutchman trailing Kimi Antonelli by 110 points in the drivers' standings as the field enters the summer break, his capacity to outperform teammate Isack Hadjar—who has scored just 62% of Verstappen's points—underscores his value to the team.

The details:

• Hinchcliffe named Verstappen among his top five drivers of the season so far, alongside Norris, Liam Lawson, Gabriel Bortoleto, and Antonelli.
• The analyst noted that both Red Bull drivers have wrestled with the RB22's balance, but the gap between them grows as the car moves closer to Verstappen's preferred feeling.
• Verstappen's radio transmissions have been characteristically fiery this season, reflecting the difficulty of managing the current Red Bull package.
• The four-time world champion's drive to second place in Hungary was highlighted as a quintessential example of maximizing an uncompetitive car.

What's next:

The summer break offers Red Bull a crucial window to address the RB22's persistent balance problems before the season resumes. While closing a 110-point deficit to Antonelli appears a monumental task, Verstappen's form suggests he remains capable of disrupting the championship fight if the team can unlock more consistent pace from its package in the second half.