Verstappen Doubts 2026 F1 Win in Madrid as Red Bull Car Pace Lags

3 articles · Updated · Motorsport.com · Sep 10

Max Verstappen said a win at Madrid is unlikely and conceded a winless 2026 season is now a realistic scenario despite the new circuit's reputation as a driver-friendly track.
Red Bull's lack of pace is the reason, he said, arguing that even exceptional drivers still need a fast car and that his own form has not translated into results.
Madrid adds another challenge: Verstappen compared the new IFEMA street circuit to Jeddah, where small mistakes are heavily punished, and said drivers must learn the margins quickly.
19 red flags in an F3 test and James Vowles's description of the Madring as a 'car killer' have heightened safety concerns ahead of the circuit's first Formula 1 race.
Liam Lawson echoed the Jeddah comparison, pointing to blind corners, a tricky Turns 5-6 chicane and 2026 power-unit limits that could still leave room for drivers to make more difference than at Monza.