Red Bull pins Verstappen's future on 2026 development trajectory

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies is betting that a strong development trajectory throughout the 2026 season will be enough to secure Max Verstappen's long-term future. As the team transitions to a full-fledged manufacturer with Ford, Mekies acknowledges the massive challenge but believes showing consistent progress is key to retaining the four-time champion.

Why it matters:

Verstappen holds performance-related exit clauses in his contract running until 2028. With Red Bull building its own power unit while adapting to massive regulatory changes, the team cannot afford a stagnant season. Keeping their star driver satisfied is critical for the squad's competitive viability during this risky transitional period.

The details:

• Verstappen's Investment: Mekies emphasized that Verstappen is fully embedded in the project, understanding the risks of the new Red Bull Ford Powertrains unit. The goal is to demonstrate a "strong enough trajectory" so he trusts the group to deliver the fastest car eventually.
• Development Focus: The 2026 regulations allow for significantly higher in-season development rates. Mekies predicts updates will be "three, four, five times more" frequent, covering both chassis aerodynamics and hybrid power unit software deployment.
• Regulatory Assistance: Red Bull may benefit from FIA concessions designed to help lagging manufacturers catch up, providing additional development opportunities if their V6 power unit struggles initially.

What's next:

While Red Bull has adopted an underdog status for 2026, the team's ability to replicate its late-2025 recovery form will be crucial. Mekies is optimistic that the sheer volume of development allowed will enable the team to evolve the pecking order and prove their long-term vision to Verstappen.