Former Haas team principal Günther Steiner has commented on Max Verstappen’s standing within Formula 1, highlighting the Dutchman’s previous championship successes. Steiner’s remarks underscore Verstappen’s dominant period where he secured multiple world titles. This perspective comes as the 2026 Formula 1 season progresses.
Verstappen achieved four consecutive Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship titles from 2021 through 2024. During this period, he established himself as a leading force in the sport. His career statistics include 71 Grand Prix wins across 12 seasons.
However, the 2026 season has presented a different scenario for the four-time champion. Max Verstappen currently holds sixth position in the Drivers’ Championship standings. He has accumulated 109 points after 11 rounds of the current season.
Verstappen has not secured a victory in the 2026 season to date, recording four podium finishes. Red Bull Racing, his team, has also yet to claim a win this year. The team is currently positioned fourth in the Constructors’ Championship.
Red Bull Racing’s performance in 2026 is influenced by significant technical changes. The team is navigating a ‘difficult reset year’ as it develops its first fully in-house power unit in collaboration with Ford. This transition has contributed to their struggles for pace and consistency.
The 2026 Formula 1 season introduced major regulation changes, including a revised power unit configuration and new active aerodynamics. These changes have impacted the competitive landscape, with Mercedes and Ferrari currently leading the Constructors’ Championship.
Günther Steiner, who departed from his role as Haas F1 team principal ahead of the 2024 season, remains an active figure in motorsport. He serves as a pundit and commentator for various F1 broadcasters. As of 2026, Steiner is also the CEO and owner of the Red Bull KTM Tech3 MotoGP team.
He just took all championships.
Steiner’s assessment of Verstappen’s past dominance reflects a period where the driver consistently outperformed his rivals. This historical performance contrasts with Red Bull’s current challenges in adapting to the 2026 technical regulations and power unit development.
