Verstappen concedes winless 2026 season is a real possibility

Max Verstappen was asked during the Dutch media session in Monza whether he now thinks he might not win a single race this Formula 1 season – which would be the first time since his debut year in 2015. His response was telling: "I'm obviously never going to say that out loud!"

Last year, Verstappen did say it, and seemingly it worked. After making that statement, he finished on the podium in every grand prix during the second half of the season and fell just two points short of a fifth consecutive world title. This year, however, the situation is completely different, and a turnaround is virtually out of the question.

Why it matters:

A winless season for Verstappen would end a remarkable streak and underscore Red Bull's dramatic fall from grace. The Dutchman believes he is performing at a high level, but the car isn't delivering. "As a driver, I feel good this year, but I'm not winning races. Does that mean I'm a bad driver or not quick enough? I don't think so."

The details:

• Verstappen admits the chance of winning is "not very big" with the current package, but he'll "go all out" if the opportunity arises.
• Madrid's new challenge: The Madring has been a hot topic, with 19 red flags in F3 testing and Williams boss James Vowles calling it "a car killer." Verstappen agrees it could be dangerous: "In some places, when you have a tiny moment, it can result in a crash. But Jeddah is the same."
• Jeddah comparison: Verstappen says the Madring feels similar to Jeddah, a street circuit where every mistake is punished. Liam Lawson agrees, citing the many blind corners: "The walls just sort of follow where the track goes and they're just very blind in a lot of places."
• Tricky chicane: Lawson highlights Turns 5-6 as particularly difficult: "If you take too much of the first kerb, it'll bounce you across the second kerb, which will then bounce you into the wall."
• Driver impact limited: Despite the track being described as one where drivers can make a difference, Verstappen is skeptical: "You can make the story as beautiful as you want, right? Driver's track or not, at the end of the day you still need a fast car in Formula 1."

What's next:

Verstappen heads to Madrid knowing that even a perfect drive may not be enough. Lawson believes the circuit will allow drivers to make more of a difference than Monza, but not to the extent of Monaco, where they can push flat out without limitations. For Verstappen, the priority is simply surviving the weekend and hoping for a miracle.