# Formula 1 technical performance challenges

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/formula-1-technical-performance-challenges
> Updated: 2026-10-13T06:02:32.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

Formula 1 teams Red Bull Racing and McLaren have both acknowledged significant technical challenges with their current vehicles that are expected to persist for several seasons.

Red Bull Racing reported a complex performance issue with the RB22 characterized by gradual car degradation. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that a definitive solution may not be possible until 2027. Driver Max Verstappen has criticized the car’s perceived fragility, describing it as being ‘made of paper’.

Similarly, McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella stated that the team cannot resolve fundamental handling and grip issues without major changes expected in 2027. Drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have struggled with the vehicle, with Norris noting the driving experience is ‘mentally exhausting’ due to the car being at its limit in every corner.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-13: McLaren cannot fix F1 car handling issues until 2027

McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella says fundamental handling and grip issues with their F1 car cannot be fully resolved until 2027, despite efforts from drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mclaren-cannot-fix-f1-car-handling-issues-until-2027

### 2026-09-20: Red Bull admits persistent car issues may last until 2027

Red Bull admits a complex car degradation issue may persist until 2027, while David Coulthard criticizes the Madrid circuit layout for lacking overtaking opportunities.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lando-norris-loses-madrid-gp-victory-due-to-vsc-timing

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Cite as: Formula 1 technical performance challenges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/formula-1-technical-performance-challenges