Source: Official Team Post via X
Max Verstappen Praises Red Bull's New Engine Partnership Amid Horner's Reflections
Max Verstappen has expressed satisfaction with Red Bull's collaboration with Ford, highlighting the success of their new powertrain. Meanwhile, Christian Horner, the former Red Bull boss, feels both pride and a sense of loss as he watches the team's achievements from afar.
Max Verstappen is all smiles as he reflects on Red Bull's promising start with their new Red Bull Powertrains-Ford partnership. The Dutch driver has shared his contentment with how their engine project has kicked off, following his commanding victories in both Malaysia and Singapore. Verstappen's comments arrive in the wake of Christian Horner, Red Bull's former team principal, expressing mixed feelings about the team's recent success. Horner, who played a crucial role in establishing Red Bull's engine division, admitted to feeling 'hurt and robbed' as he watched Verstappen secure the first victory for the new power unit from his living room rather than the pit wall.
The journey to this point began when Honda decided to exit Formula 1, leaving Red Bull in need of a new engine supplier. The team responded by forming its own powertrain division and teaming up with Ford. This collaboration has quickly borne fruit, with Verstappen clinching a dominant win at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, followed by another impressive performance in Singapore.
In a conversation with The Guardian, Horner revealed that he reached out to Verstappen and other team members after their success in Malaysia. However, watching the race on television rather than being present to witness it firsthand left him feeling a sense of loss.
Ahead of his Singapore triumph, Verstappen was asked if the new power unit had surpassed his expectations. "I always stayed very neutral," he said, avoiding undue optimism or negativity. "You trust that the people hired are doing a good job, but I was just waiting to see when the car and engine were ready." He added that Red Bull's investment in the project has paid off, and he is pleased with their strong start compared to other teams. Nevertheless, he emphasized the team's commitment to continuous improvement.
According to the FIA, Red Bull now boasts the best internal combustion engine on the 2026 grid. Their chassis also saw advancements, particularly evident in Baku, where Verstappen became a strong contender against Mercedes' George Russell. This momentum continued with consecutive wins in Malaysia and Singapore, including a sprint victory.
Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has recently extended his contract with Red Bull until 2030, putting to rest any rumors of a potential move to McLaren or Mercedes. He clarified that his decision to stay wasn't influenced by the team's recent upgrades but rather a shared vision for the future. "It's just been really enjoyable to work with the team," he stated. The improved predictability and balance of the car have also contributed to his satisfaction, allowing him to push the limits with more confidence.
Currently, Verstappen sits fourth in the 2026 Drivers' standings, trailing George Russell by just 17 points. His recent performances have reinforced his reputation as one of the top drivers in the sport, and his commitment to Red Bull suggests that fans can expect more thrilling races in the years to come.