The 2022 season laid down the foundations of the new era of Formula 1, bringing about significant changes to the Formula 1 car and chassis. Formula 1 cars today look almost unrecognizable when compared to those as early as 20-30 years ago, largely owing due to significant development in technology and expertise.
The next big upcoming change expected is the change to the engine regulations in 2026. Changes like these often tend to shuffle about the team standings, with fans hopeful for the regulations bringing an end to Red Bull dominance. However, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko does not seem too worried.
Red Bull team advisor sheds light on new engine for 2026
Formula 1 claims that the new engine regulations for 2026 would bring 3 times the electrical power, make the cars more environmentally responsible, improve safety, and more. What’s more, fans are also hoping for more competitive racing, bridging the gaps between team pace, and halting the Red Bull dominance. However, Helmut Marko seems confident that the team can continue their brilliant form in recent years.
🚨 Red Bull's 2026 engine is "miles ahead" of Ferrari & Audi, says Helmut Marko
"We are miles ahead of Audi, we are miles ahead of Ferrari, and Mercedes is roughly on the same level."
"In August, we'll have a complete internal combustion engine with MGU-K and battery running."… pic.twitter.com/G3qwjAgCsT
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) August 14, 2023
Red Bull powertrains currently produce their power units as part of a deal with Ford. Audi’s expected entry into F1 could pose a threat to Red Bull’s engine supremacy, but Marko maintains that this supremacy shall remain unaffected by this, opening up about current engine development, and taking a dig at rival teams.
Helmut Marko takes sly dig at Audi and Ferrari
Boasting about Red Bull’s positive progress in terms of engine development for 2026, shutting down Mercedes’ allegation of Red Bull falling behind on schedule. Marko, known for his bluntness, takes a dig at rivals teams, saying:
“In August, a complete combustion engine with MGU-K and battery is still running. There we are miles ahead of Audi, we are miles ahead of Ferrari, and Mercedes is about the same.”
He continued, “We have Ford as a partner in the sector. We have absolute top people in the combustion engine. And we have two very bright minds on the electrical side.”
Marko’s confidence is not unsubstantiated, with team development for upcoming seasons moving smoothly through an already smooth season for the Austrian team. Winning all 12 races this season, Red Bull have doubled down on the investment of Max Verstappen, a generational talent currently gunning for his third championship.
Do you believe the Red Bull dominance will leak on to 2026 and onwards? Can Mercedes and Ferrari or any other rival team bite back? Or will Audi hit the ground running? Comment your thoughts below!
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Thank you Mr. Dulles