Red Bull cites upgrades after Verstappen earns first 2026 win

Laurent Mekies said Max Verstappen’s victory came after Red Bull gradually improved its form in 2026. According to the reports, the team began the season more than a second off the frontrunners but reduced that gap through a steady flow of upgrades.

The Bahrain Grand Prix win was described as Verstappen’s first victory of the 2026 season, while Formula1.com also noted that it was the first win for Red Bull Ford Powertrains. Separate coverage said Red Bull had worked to address weaknesses in the car, and PlanetF1 reported that Verstappen’s win in Malaysia came after an upgraded Red Bull.

Even with the result, Mekies said it was still too early to know whether Red Bull can fight for wins at every circuit or match Mercedes consistently.