Verstappen Hails Positive Red Bull Powertrain Performance in Bahrain Testing

Max Verstappen has expressed strong satisfaction with the initial performance of Red Bull’s new power unit during pre-season testing in Bahrain. The Dutchman completed a remarkable 136 laps on the opening day of testing, recording the highest lap count of any driver.

Red Bull Powertrains Debut

2026 marks the first season Red Bull Powertrains, in partnership with Ford, will supply engines to both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls. The Bahrain test provided the first extended running for the debut power unit following a shakedown in Barcelona. Verstappen described the performance as “amazing to see” for a new manufacturer.

Verstappen’s Assessment

“It’s of course amazing to see that, as a new manufacturer, to come in,” Verstappen stated. “Also for everyone to see the new car and engine together, it’s like their little baby! And like I said, it’s still of course a lot to learn, but I perceive we’re heading in the right direction.”

He acknowledged areas for improvement, stating, “Of course there’s still things we wish to do better, for sure. I think we’ll never be satisfied but, like I said, at least we’re not breaking down. I think that no-one really expected that from the start, that we would go out of the garage without exploding! That has been very positive.”

Further Development and Upgrades

Red Bull has also been actively implementing an aggressive upgrade package during the Bahrain testing. Changes include modifications to the front wing, sidepods, and aerodynamic tweaks to winglets. These upgrades are focused on optimizing the car’s performance and extracting maximum potential from the new powertrain.

The team initially adopted a conservative approach with the sidepods to verify the reliability of the power unit. The latest upgrades push the car’s packaging concept further, refining airflow management along the underside of the sidepods. Head of Aerodynamics Enrico Balbo has also introduced new mirror supports to finalize the car’s configuration before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in early March.

Testing Challenges

Despite the positive progress, the team encountered some issues during testing, with Isack Hadjar’s car spending a considerable time in the pits. It remains unclear whether these problems were related to the upgrades or other unrelated issues.

Verstappen’s Pace

As of February 19, 2026, Verstappen recorded a time of 1:33.584, placing him second behind Lando Norris. This time was achieved using a harder, slower tire compound (C3 medium), highlighting the potential of the Red Bull package.

Source: Formula1.com, RacingNews365.com, The Athletic