Verstappen sets his sights on 2026, set to skip Abu Dhabi test

During the post-season tests held this Tuesday after the conclusion of the 2025 Formula 1 season, team will run two cars. One driver will take part in the Pirelli tyre test where they will use compounds for the 2026 season. At the same time, the young driver test will also be conducted.

Verstappen will skip the scheduled post-season test, GPblog has learned. The Dutchman will not stay in Abu Dhabi to run additional laps in the current car.

After the race, he had already suggested he wouldn’t spend extra time in the RB21, and with the conclusion of Sunday’s Grand Prix, he has now completed his final miles in this season’s car.

Instead of attending the post-season test, Verstappen is expected in Milton Keynes. Following a long season, the Dutchman will visit the Red Bull Racing factory on Wednesday.

After the conclusion of the Abu Dhabi GP, Verstappen praised the Red Bull Racing outfit for their efforts despite missing out on the 2025 drivers' crown. The Dutch driver, over his team radio, highlighted how impressed he was with the team’s resurgence, particularly in the second half of the season.

Verstappen also touched on his relationship with race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase, singling out the Italian for praise in the aftermath of his race win at the Yas Marina Circuit.

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