Red Bull engine start ‘very positive’ – Verstappen

Max Verstappen described Red Bull Powertrains' debut engine performance during 2026 pre-season testing in Bahrain as "very positive" and "amazing to see" for a new manufacturer. Red Bull completed 136 laps on the opening day, demonstrating strong reliability without major issues. Verstappen emphasized the ongoing learning process with the new 2026 regulations, focusing on understanding the complex new formula, the engine, and the car's reliability. He acknowledged the difficulty in assessing rivals' true pace, as teams might not be running at full power, and stated that Red Bull's primary focus was on their own extensive testing and avoiding breakdowns.