F1 is entering its first new engine regulation changes since the 2014 season when hybrid engines were first introduced. Mercedes is reported to have the strongest power unit for the 2026 season, much like after the 2014 regulation changes.
On the other hand, Red Bull is creating their first in-house power unit program, in partnership with Ford. Christian Horner is realistic about the results for the first few years and predicts a challenging 2026 season. However, the Red Bull team principal said it would be “embarrassing” for Mercedes if his team had a better engine.
Christian Horner says Mercedes should be ahead of Red Bull
Red Bull is ending their successful partnership with Honda, where the Japanese manufacturer supplied engines to the Austrian team. Red Bull will create their first power unit for next season, and Christian Horner understands it will be challenging. Although he expected his team to be competitive, he believes teams like Mercedes might be ahead.
He said: “We understand the pressure that there is next year, with us coming in as a new power unit manufacturer. The challenge of that is enormous. But we’ve got a hugely capable group of people. We’ve invested significantly. We’ve got a great culture within the team. Who knows?
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“To expect us to be ahead of Mercedes next year is… It would be embarrassing for Mercedes if we were, or for any manufacturer. But I think we’re going to be in a competitive position, potentially even to where we are today relative to our other PU manufacturers. There’s everything to play for.”
Mercedes blew the competition away with their power unit after the 2014 rule changes. It took Red Bull a few seasons to catch up and challenge for race wins consistently. It’s expected to be a few seasons before they catch up with their engine, meaning challenging for wins and titles could be off the cards until they do.
Will Max Verstappen leave Red Bull for Mercedes?
The talk leading up to the British GP was the reports that Max Verstappen could leave Red Bull and join Mercedes. This is despite the Dutchman having a contract until 2028. However, Verstappen will likely remain at Red Bull for 2026, as Sky Sports has reported the four-time world champion has no desire to leave.
However, this might allow Verstappen to judge which team has the best power unit and which car is best. This can allow him to decide if he wants to leave Red Bull with his reported exit clause in his contract.
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Verstappen has been with Red Bull since 2016, so he has been with the team when they weren’t as competitive. But Verstappen has indicated that he doesn’t want to race in F1 “into his late 30s“. The Dutchman wants to try other categories. So if Red Bull isn’t performing next season, could he leave the team he has won four world championships with and join Mercedes?
