Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has claimed at the Bahrain International Circuit that the Red Bull-Ford power unit is far ahead of the competition. While Liam Lawson can only laugh at the statement, Max Verstappen offers a more measured view.
During the first 2026 F1 winter tests in Barcelona, the new Mercedes showed both stability and impressive pace, reinforcing expectations that the Silver Arrows could be favorites for the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship. However, in Bahrain, Wolff presented a different perspective.
“The Red Bull-Ford engine sets the new benchmark, especially with Max Verstappen at Red Bull, who is at least a second per lap ahead.”
Verstappen was quick to downplay the statement. Reflecting on recent testing and past seasons, he urged caution before drawing conclusions.
“If you look at the past 10 years and the winter testing so far, it’s hard to say on day one who will become champion, especially with the major rule changes this year.”
“Personally, I think this is a bit of a distraction tactic, but that’s fine. I’m focused on what we’re doing here because we still have a lot of work ahead and a lot to learn, as the new rules are very complex. We just want to complete our laps and then see how things go.”
Speculation of a full second advantage sparked reactions in the Bahrain pit lane. Some, like Liam Lawson, found the claim hard to believe.
“Who came up with that? Red Bull-Ford far ahead of everyone else? By a second? Sorry, but that’s ridiculous.”
Despite the debate, Lawson acknowledged that the new Red Bull engine appears strong, but emphasized the need for perspective.
“The truth is, we’re happy with the state of the new engine. But it makes no sense to draw conclusions about the first races of the season from the initial test days here in Bahrain. Right now, nobody knows the true performance of the various power units. I think we’re well-prepared in terms of performance. But a full second ahead of the competition? Let’s be serious. We’ll find out in Melbourne how much all this talk is actually worth.”
As testing continues in Bahrain, the F1 paddock remains cautious. Early impressions are important, but the true competitive order will only be revealed once the season begins in Melbourne.
