Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has confirmed a reduction in upgrades for the RB22 during the latter half of the 2026 Formula 1 season. This strategic adjustment follows an unusually high number of developments introduced earlier in the year.
The team has already implemented 36 changes to the RB22 since the start of the season. These modifications aimed to address a significant initial performance deficit.
Mekies stated that the team must now balance current season development with future preparations. He expects Red Bull to shift its focus to the 2027 car earlier than in previous years.
This decision is influenced by the $215 million budget cap for the 2026 season. The need to operate within this financial limit restricts extensive ongoing development.
The Chinese Grand Prix was the only race out of 11 where Red Bull did not introduce an upgrade. Major alterations were seen at the Miami and Austrian Grands Prix.
Despite the numerous updates, Max Verstappen has voiced frustrations regarding the RB22’s handling. He cited persistent issues with oversteer and tyre degradation.
Verstappen finished second at the recent Hungarian Grand Prix, describing the result as an ‘overperformance’ given the car’s behaviour. He noted damage on the car after the race.
The four-time World Champion emphasized the need for more overall performance. He also highlighted fixing the car’s tendency to lose pace over a race weekend or during a race.
During qualifying in Hungary, Verstappen experienced a spin in Q3, which left him starting from sixth position. He described the car’s rear as ‘non-existent’ when turning in.
Red Bull currently sits fourth in the Constructors’ Championship. The RB22 is powered by a Red Bull Ford DM01 engine.
Isack Hadjar is Verstappen’s teammate for the 2026 season. Technical Director Pierre Waché oversees chassis development for the RB22.
Ben Hodgkinson, Technical Director of Red Bull Ford Powertrains, leads the engine development. Red Bull Powertrains is the benchmark for the FIA’s ADUO system.
This benchmark status means Red Bull is ineligible for engine catch-up concessions available to rival manufacturers. McLaren’s Andrea Stella has also acknowledged similar budget cap challenges.
‘It’s probably difficult to imagine that we will continue that rhythm, but we nonetheless need to see what is the best way to try and approach these last weekends,’ Mekies stated after the Hungarian race.
The decision to prioritize 2027 development aims to prevent compromising future car performance. This approach differs from previous seasons where development continued later into the year.
