Max Verstappen expects tough Spa race amid Red Bull performance concerns

Four‑time world champion Max Verstappen said the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa‑Francorchamps will be a difficult race because of energy‑management challenges for his Red Bull car. He noted that, like at Silverstone, the new 2026 power units force drivers to adapt their approach to corners and that the car’s slower exits reduce the impact a driver can have. Verstappen stressed the need for a positive mindset and added that he has already returned to the simulator to work on solutions.

During the third free practice, Verstappen shouted over the radio that Carlos Sainz’s maneuvers were dangerous, prompting stewards to review the incident. Separate reports highlighted that Verstappen’s future with Red Bull depends on the team’s technical stability as it transitions to its own power‑unit program for the 2026 regulations. Although he is contracted until the end of 2028, he has warned he will not stay without a competitive car, especially after the planned exit of chief technical officer Adrian Newey.

Speculation about a possible move to McLaren resurfaced when his father Jos Verstappen and manager Raymond Vermeulen were seen in the McLaren motorhome at Spa. McLaren clarified the visit was unrelated to any transfer talks and was linked to a joint effort supporting young driver Dries Van Langendonck under the Verstappen Racing program. Additionally, Red Bull conducted a private test day to improve race‑starts, showing promising footage of Verstappen’s starts at Spa.

Overall, Verstappen is preparing for a demanding weekend at Spa while his longer‑term position at Red Bull remains the subject of ongoing discussion.