Sainz: Red Bull's 2026 power unit looks 'a step ahead' in Bahrain testing

Carlos Sainz has echoed Mercedes' assessment that Red Bull Ford's new 2026 power unit appears to be a significant step ahead of the competition based on early GPS data from Bahrain pre-season testing. The Williams driver highlighted the impressive energy deployment of the new engine, suggesting its performance was not just slightly better, but "mighty impressive" and a "clear step ahead." This early advantage, if maintained, could set a formidable benchmark for the new regulatory era.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season introduces radically new power unit regulations, making pre-season development a critical indicator of the competitive order. Red Bull, as a new engine manufacturer separate from its championship-winning chassis operation, establishing an immediate performance lead would be a monumental achievement and reshape expectations for the season. It validates the team's massive investment in its new powertrains division and puts immediate pressure on established engine suppliers like Mercedes and Ferrari.

The details:

• Performance Data: GPS data from the Bahrain test indicates Max Verstappen's Red Bull was able to achieve higher top speeds consistently on straights, a direct result of superior energy deployment from its electric motor.
• Energy Management is Key: The 2026 rules triple the energy from the electric motor (now half the total power) but keep battery capacity the same. This makes optimal harvesting and deployment the central performance differentiator.
• Driver Adaptation: Sainz explained that drivers are adapting techniques, like downshifting in slow corners to keep revs high for harvesting, but emphasized the ideal system requires no driver compromise.
• System Integration: The Spaniard identified the seamless integration of the power unit, gearbox, and driver preferences as the ultimate challenge. "The key to these regulations is not going to be separating both, but integrating both of them together," he stated, praising Red Bull's apparent success in this area.

What's next:

While the data is compelling, Sainz and other rivals caution that testing run plans can be deceptive. Teams have five more days of testing to refine their energy management software and strategies.

• The true picture will only emerge at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, where reliability and race-long performance under pressure will be tested.
• If Red Bull Ford Powertrains arrives at Race One with the fastest and most reliable engine, it will signal a technical coup that could dominate the early phase of the new regulatory cycle.