After pre-season testing, it was possible to draw an early comparison between the four top teams on the grid. While Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari appear closely matched and capable of fighting for victory, Red Bull seems to be slightly further behind. Max Verstappen himself has acknowledged the gap and offered a clear assessment of the situation ahead of the opening round in Australia.
Red Bull in testing: last among the top teams?
During the first few days of testing, the Milton Keynes-based squad surprised many observers. Despite running a completely new Power Unit — developed in-house by Red Bull for the first time in collaboration with Ford — both Verstappen and Isack Hadjar were able to complete significant mileage, collecting valuable data for the engineers.
However, the picture shifted once performance runs began in earnest. Alongside the usual reliability issues expected with a brand-new engine project, it became clear that Red Bull was slightly trailing its direct rivals in outright pace.
Verstappen satisfied, but aware of the challenges
“We had a pretty good pre-season,” the four-time world champion admitted to F1 microphones. “It was a big learning experience, but the car felt good and we were able to complete a lot of laps. So, in reality, there’s not much more we could have asked for in terms of preparation.”
What concerns Verstappen, however, lies elsewhere: “In terms of pure performance… I don’t know. I think we still have quite a bit of work to do to be at the front. I already knew that would be the case. Things can always be better, but they can also be much worse, and I think our starting point is good. We can be very happy and satisfied with that.”
Despite the cautious tone, the Dutch driver expressed pride in the work carried out at the factory, particularly on the new engine program. “It’s been really impressive to see how the project was born and how the engine has developed over the past four years. Honestly, it was a very proud moment when I got into the car.”
With the Australian Grand Prix set to open a brand-new technical era in Formula 1, Red Bull faces an early test of its competitiveness. While Verstappen remains confident in the long-term potential of the project, the opening weekend in Melbourne will provide the first true indication of whether the reigning champions can immediately challenge Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren — or whether they will need time to close the gap.
Max Verstappen’s measured assessment of the new Red Bull-Ford partnership highlights the monumental challenge of the new technical regulations. While the team’s reliability has been a pleasant surprise for a first-time engine manufacturer, the performance deficit to Mercedes and Ferrari underscores the steep learning curve of the hybrid era.
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