Red Bull Deny Having Best F1 Engine, Expect Major Upgrade Opportunity in Coming Races

Red Bull's motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has publicly denied claims that the team possesses the best Formula 1 engine on the grid, insisting that rivals McLaren and Mercedes remain ahead in the power unit department. The Austrian team, currently leading the constructors' championship, has enjoyed a strong start to the 2026 season, but Marko is eager to temper expectations regarding their power unit performance.

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Speaking from the team’s Milton Keynes headquarters, Marko stated, “We have made good progress with our power unit, but to say we have the best engine would be incorrect. McLaren and Mercedes have shown exceptional performance this season, and we are under no illusions about the challenge ahead.” The comments come despite Red Bull securing multiple podium finishes and race wins in recent rounds.

The team is understood to be working on a major engine upgrade package scheduled for introduction at the Spanish Grand Prix in June. Sources within the team suggest the upgrade could provide a performance gain of approximately 15-20 horsepower, which would significantly close the gap with their rivals. Engine supplier Honda has reportedly been pushing development timelines forward following successful bench testing.

Team principal Christian Horner added context to the situation, explaining that the current RB23 chassis has compensated for any power unit deficiencies through exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. “Our chassis development has been strong, and we have extraction maximum from what we currently have,” Horner noted. “But we recognize that engine performance will become increasingly important as the season progresses and tracks demand more top-end speed.”

Red Bull currently sits 47 points ahead of McLaren in the constructors' championship, with driver Max Verstappen leading the drivers' standings by 23 points over Lando Norris. However, the gap has narrowed in recent races, with McLaren's upgraded MCL40 showing improved race pace consistency.

The upcoming race weekend at Imola will provide an early indicator of whether Red Bull's upgrade expectations are justified, with both teams expected to bring new components. Championship rival teams will be watching closely to assess whether Red Bull can maintain their early-season advantage or if the power unit gap will finally be addressed.