First podium of the season arrives in Canada
Red Bull and Max Verstappen celebrated their first podium finish of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, marking an important milestone in what has been a challenging campaign so far.
Attention is now turning to the FIA’s upcoming announcement regarding the first ADUO assessment. Based on current expectations, the Red Bull-Ford power unit is unlikely to qualify for any performance-related concessions, a reflection of the impressive work carried out by the engineers and technicians under the leadership of Ben Hodgkinson.
As the Formula 1 paddock prepares for the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, both Max Verstappen and Ben Hodgkinson have shared their thoughts on the team’s recent progress and ambitions for the races ahead.
Max Verstappen optimistic about Red Bull’s development
Max Verstappen said: “In Miami we made some positive steps forward and our pace is much closer to where it needs to be, so we are making progress. I felt that we were able to extract better performance from the car and I was much more comfortable behind the wheel.
“We will continue to push as hard as possible because there are always areas where we can improve and things we can work on, and that is simply how we operate as a team.
“In Monaco, a good strategy is fundamental and, as always at this circuit, achieving the best possible result in qualifying will be essential. It was nice to have a bit of time to recharge before the double-header, and it was great to be close to home and spend time with my family, especially during such a busy period both on and off the track.”
Ford proud of the progress made
Ben Hodgkinson also reflected on the significance of Red Bull’s first podium finish in the new era of the team’s power unit project.
“In Formula 1, the objective is always to win, but this first podium achieved with our Power Unit is certainly a milestone worth celebrating. It recognizes the importance of what we have managed to accomplish in such a short period of time.
“Red Bull Ford Powertrains is still a relatively new operation competing against some of the biggest names in both the automotive industry and motorsport. Being able to challenge them at the front of the field is a source of pride for everyone involved in the project.”
Hodgkinson acknowledged that there is still significant work ahead before the team can consistently fight for victories.
“The journey is still a long one, and we know the gap to the leaders remains significant. However, we are learning quickly, developing our capabilities and focusing on the right areas.
“We are excited about the upcoming races, where we will continue to make progress and pursue our first victory in this new era of Formula 1, a period in which new teams and manufacturers have chosen to enter the sport and grow within it.”
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