Verstappen returns to the scene of a special milestone
After an impressive qualifying performance that secured him a place on the front row, Max Verstappen saw his Monaco Grand Prix come to an abrupt end when serious power unit problems forced him to retire in the opening stages of the race.
It was a major setback for the Dutchman, who had viewed the Monaco weekend as one of his best opportunities to secure his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Verstappen will now look to bounce back at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, although Mercedes is once again expected to start the weekend as the favourite.
Barcelona also carries special memories for the four-time world champion. It was at this very circuit, ten years ago, that Verstappen claimed a sensational victory on his Red Bull debut, becoming the youngest race winner in Formula 1 history.
Verstappen: “I have unfinished business”
“I have so many special memories of Barcelona, especially because I took my first victory here ten years ago. Obviously, it was something I wanted to achieve, and doing it in my very first race with the team was really special,” said the Dutch driver.
“I’m excited to come back here and race. Monaco didn’t deliver the result we wanted and it was a huge disappointment for the team because everything had gone so well throughout the weekend. I feel like I have unfinished business.
“Barcelona is a completely different circuit, with high-speed corners, long sweeping turns and a long straight. It will be a good test for us, and it will be interesting to see whether we have taken a step forward.”
Hadjar reflects on Monaco success
Isack Hadjar arrives in Spain after securing his first podium finish with Red Bull in Monaco, a result that further highlighted the progress the team has made in recent races.
“It was a special moment to take my first podium with the team in Monaco,” Hadjar explained. “The podiums we have achieved as a team in recent races show the progress we are making and are a great reward for all the hard work that has been done behind the scenes.
“We know there is still a lot of work to do and plenty of areas where we can improve if we want to keep fighting consistently at the front. Returning to Barcelona after the pre-season tests should give us a good reference point for this weekend and a valuable opportunity to assess how much progress we have made.”
Iwasa gets his first FP1 outing of the season
Hadjar will hand over his car during the opening practice session to Ayumu Iwasa, who is set to make his first Formula 1 appearance of the season.
The Japanese driver has spent extensive time preparing in the simulator and is eager to maximise the opportunity with Red Bull.
“I’m excited to drive for the team during FP1 in Barcelona this weekend,” Iwasa said. “The last time I drove a Formula 1 car was in Abu Dhabi last year, so it will be a new experience for me with the current car and regulations.
“I’ve spent a lot of time preparing in the simulator, so I’m looking forward to getting out on track, learning as much as possible and helping the team during the session.”
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