Key Takeaways:

Red Bull Racing Technical Director Pierre Waché has not given up hope of securing race victories in 2026. Facing difficulties under Formula 1’s new technical regulations, the Austrian squad has yet to stand on the top step of the podium this season, relying heavily on standout drives from Max Verstappen to secure top-three finishes. Nevertheless, belief remains strong within Milton Keynes.

Waché confirmed that competing for race wins remains the core objective for 2026. The technical director noted that Red Bull has outlined an upgrade roadmap running through the end of the campaign to prevent what would be Verstappen’s first winless season since his 2015 debut year with Toro Rosso.

To execute these updates effectively, however, the team is working to deepen its understanding of the regulatory framework and how aerodynamic changes impact overall car behavior.

“It is difficult to predict, but our target this year is to achieve race wins. We are trying to develop the car and we have a development plan running until the end of the year,” Waché explained.

“We are doing everything within our power to improve—from learning how these regulations function to understanding how ongoing development affects the handling traits and overall pace of the car,” he added.

Beyond aerodynamic development, Waché admitted that efficiency challenges remain regarding the Red Bull-Ford power unit. Despite these hurdles, the technical director remains focused on delivering a race-winning machine to drivers Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar.

Pierre Waché remains focused on returning Red Bull to the top step of the podium in 2026 (Photo: Red Bull Content Pool)

“Naturally, in terms of overall efficiency, we face certain constraints under these regulations that limit our potential,” Waché acknowledged. “However, everything we can do to make the car capable of winning—whether with Max or Isack—we are doing.”

Formula 1 is currently in its summer break. Track action for the 2026 season resumes August 21–23 with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Has Red Bull won a race in the 2026 F1 season?

No. Red Bull has yet to secure a victory in the opening half of the 2026 season, though Max Verstappen has achieved multiple podium finishes.

Who are Red Bull’s drivers for the 2026 season?

Red Bull Racing’s 2026 driver lineup consists of four-time World Champion Max Verstappen and second-year driver Isack Hadjar.