Verstappen identifies Red Bull's 'big priority' after summer break

Max Verstappen says Red Bull must find more overall performance and fix recurring issues that cost the team pace across race weekends. Despite consecutive podiums, the Dutchman admitted the RB22 lacked the consistency to challenge for wins at the Hungaroring, while also calling for power unit gains once the summer break ends.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's dominance has faded this season, leaving the team in a tight championship fight where every tenth counts. Verstappen's comments underline that the RB22 is not only down on raw pace but also struggling with operational consistency, a double headache that could force the squad to choose between salvaging 2026 or pivoting to 2027.

The details:

• Verstappen highlighted how the RB22 can lose performance over a single weekend or even from start to finish in a race, labeling it a "big priority" alongside overall downforce and efficiency.
• The Dutchman also pushed for power unit development, though the FIA's latest benchmark test complicated matters. The governing body previously rated the Red Bull Ford ICE above Mercedes', making rivals eligible for homologation updates.
• GPblog understands Mercedes spent its allowance on reliability rather than performance, meaning the gap to Red Bull likely remains unchanged unless the FIA alters its measurement method after recent complaints.
• Team principal Laurent Mekies confirmed Red Bull will soon decide how to split resources between the current car and the 2027 challenger, noting the call will come earlier than in previous years.

What's next:

The summer break gives Red Bull time to diagnose its issues, but the clock is ticking. If the team cannot steady the RB22's volatile race pace and secure power unit gains, Mekies is expected to prioritize the 2027 project, potentially closing the window on a late-season comeback.