Red Bull's team principal, Laurent Mekies, has refuted speculation that his team possesses the most powerful engine in Formula 1, and as a result, anticipates being given the chance to enhance it during an upcoming engine upgrade window. The new power-unit regulations for the 2026 season include a performance-balancing measure known as Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO), which will enable manufacturers trailing the leader by two per cent or more to develop their engines.
The first upgrade window was initially scheduled to follow the Miami Grand Prix but may be postponed due to the cancellation of two races. Despite Mercedes' dominance in the opening rounds, there were rumors that Red Bull had the strongest internal combustion engine. However, Mekies stated that their engine is 'absolutely not' at the level of the best and expressed hope that they would be eligible for upgrades. Mekies agreed with Mercedes' chief, Toto Wolff, that ADUO should allow manufacturers to catch up rather than leapfrog their rivals.
The regulations provide three ADUO periods, with those at least two per cent behind the leading manufacturer receiving development opportunities. Wolff suggested that only Honda, which supplies Aston Martin's engine, needs assistance from the regulations.
Mekies estimated Mercedes' advantage over Red Bull to be around three-tenths of a second per lap, primarily due to their internal combustion engine. Red Bull's poor start to the season has raised questions about Max Verstappen's future with the team. However, Mekies is optimistic that upcoming upgrades will improve the car and lift Verstappen's spirits. Verstappen has expressed dissatisfaction with the 2026 regulations and is considering leaving the sport.
Mekies believes that Verstappen is fully committed to the team and is helping to develop the car. The team is working to provide Verstappen with a car he can consistently push, which will allow him to bring his skills to the forefront and contribute to the car's development.