Karun Chandhok has described Red Bull’s 2026 Formula 1 season as ‘completely insane,’ reflecting the ongoing challenges within the Milton Keynes outfit. The former F1 driver’s remarks underscore a period of significant internal upheaval and performance struggles for the team.
Red Bull currently occupies fourth position in the constructors’ championship, trailing Mercedes by over 200 points after 11 rounds. The team has yet to secure a victory this season, with Max Verstappen achieving their only four podium finishes.
Reports indicate Red Bull has internally conceded defeat for the 2026 season, shifting development focus towards the 2027 car. This strategic pivot follows persistent issues with the RB22 chassis and the integration of their new in-house power unit.
Max Verstappen and teammate Isack Hadjar have both described the 2026 car as ‘undriveable’ at various points. Technical Director Pierre Wache acknowledged the RB22’s ‘limitations,’ citing a narrow operating window and balance problems.
The team has experienced a notable exodus of key personnel. Christian Horner was reportedly dismissed as CEO and team principal in July 2025, followed by Helmut Marko’s resignation at the close of the 2025 season.
Adrian Newey, Gianpiero Lambiase, and Jonathan Wheatley have also departed Red Bull for rival teams. Laurent Mekies now leads the team as principal, facing a substantial rebuilding task.
Chandhok previously cautioned Red Bull in October 2025 against prematurely promoting young drivers for the 2026 season. He advocated for experienced drivers to navigate the new engine and chassis regulations.
His concerns extended to the impact of staff departures, noting that ‘good people attract other good people’. This suggests a potential for further talent drain within the organization.
Despite the season’s broader difficulties, Max Verstappen recently secured a victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia on October 5, 2026. This marked the first win for Red Bull’s in-house engine.
This singular success, however, occurs within a context of significant internal restructuring and a declared strategic shift away from aggressive 2026 development. The team’s long-term trajectory remains a subject of close observation.
