Red Bull Engine: Vermeulen’s First Impressions

Max Verstappen and Red Bull dominated much of it ground effectera in Formula 1, which lasted from 2022 to 2025. The Dutchman won three world titles, while Red Bull managed to conquer two constructors’ championships. But in a few weeks we will see the first brand new cars on the asphalt.

The premier class of motorsport is entering a completely new era, both for the engine and the chassis. Red Bull will even develop its own engine for the first time in the team’s history, in collaboration with Ford. Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, is therefore in the dark for 2026.

“What is the reference for next year? Nobody knows. It will become very clear in the first few races how things are going. We are starting with a fresh approach. We hear good things about the engine, but what is good? I don’t know what the reference is. So let’s wait and see,” says Vermeulen in an exclusive interview with RacingNews365.

“I think the decisive point will be which team is able to turn the tide as quickly as possible, if you are not there. How can you rearrange the organization in the factory and get new parts on the car to have a fast car? So let’s see how that works out. But it’s the same for everyone, so that’s a good thing.”

Vermeulen: ‘Everything is green’

In any case, Verstappen and Vermeulen will head into 2026 with renewed confidence in the team. “Absolutely, absolutely. We have a good group of people. Red Bull’s engine department fully supports it. They are incredibly committed and invest enormous amounts in engines, wind tunnels and factory settings, so everything is green. So let’s wait and see.”

Finally, Verstappen’s manager says the following. “I think we had a great season. We have a very challenging year ahead. Max is still young, still enthusiastic and still very fast. So there is everything to play for.”