Red Bull hint at huge change after British GP

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has suggested Red Bull could look to switch its entire focus to the 2026 car after the British Grand Prix.

F1 will undergo a fresh regulation switch-up next year with significant changes coming to both the chassis and the power unit.

Red Bull has teamed up with Ford to help construct its very own power unit for the first time, while Pierre Waché will oversee the build of the new car following the exit of Adrian Newey.

Balancing resources between the development of the current car versus the 2026 challenger is a headache that all teams are navigating.

However, Marko has suggested Red Bull could look to make a complete switch to next year's machine after the F1 event from Silverstone next weekend.

“There's a precise allocation of how the wind tunnel and all the tools are used,” Marko told Kleine Zeitung.

“At some point, however, they'll say: 'Okay, that's it for further development'. For two reasons: time - and the production of new parts takes time - and the cost cap. 

“So the question is: Where do you allocate your resources? 

“I assume after Silverstone or Spa at the latest, there will be a decision to focus entirely on the new car.”

Helmut Marko points to 'crucial' 2026 F1 elements

There is no indication yet over who will emerge as the strongest team in the 2026 campaign - however rumours have placed Mercedes at the top of the pecking order.

Marko, however, is unconvinced by the speculation.

“Mercedes has declared itself the favourite, but there's no evidence of that,” he added.

With the engine undergoing a major alteration, Marko stated it will likely be a deciding factor in next year's championship table.

“The development of the combustion engine alone is incredible,” he said. “The engine is smaller than the one in my lawnmower!” 

“There are three or four things that are important for the new car: the combustion engine. 

“We're on board with that, and unless there are durability issues, it won't be a game-changer. 

“The battery is crucial; we're starting with a conventional solution for that, and gasoline is a very important factor. Development in this area is going very well with our partner Exxon.