Red Bull at crossroads – Verstappen questions next move

From 2026, completely new regulations come into effect in F1, effecting the designs of the cars and the power units as well. Given the tight cost cap, this presents a difficult choice for Formula 1 teams.

Do you continue to develop the current car, but also risk having a disadvantage in 2026? Or do you throw in the towel, and shift your focus to 2026, hoping to reap the benefits in the future?

For teams towards the back of the grid, that choice will be relatively easy, but for those still in the title fight, it's a much harder decision.

During the press conference in Austria, Verstappen stated that it doesn't really matter to him when Red Bull switches to the 2026 car. "No, I mean, of course, I think teams are already focusing also on ‘26."

He continued: "So you try to get more performance out of this car, which is already planned for a while – the steps that come."

However, the four-time world champion did emphasise that the car for 2026 should also be a priority. "But at the same time, you know that ‘26 is a big opportunity to get it right as well. So I think, from what I’ve seen, what I’ve heard, it’s been the right approach by the team."