Red Bull enters critical phase for 2026 engine ambitions

Red Bull is embarking on a pivotal journey to become an engine manufacturer for 2026, but Helmut Marko insists there is no 'Plan B' should their power unit plans fall short.

Marko issues update

With Red Bull Powertrains hard at work designing and developing a power unit for 2026, Head of Driver Development Marko provided an update on progress.

"Even though we are still a long way from competitive use, everything is going according to plan and the performance curve is right," Marko stated to Austrian publication OE24.

This will come as welcome news to the team as the clock ticks down to the new engine regulations. Power unit manufacturers are deep in R&D mode, with Ferrari already completing a 2026-spec engine fire-up.

No contingency plan if engines disappoint

When asked whether existing partner Honda serves as a 'Plan B' to supply engines should Red Bull struggle, Marko was unequivocal:

"No, it has to work. From 2026, we will be racing with our own engine."

With Honda only supplying Aston Martin from 2026 onwards, Red Bull is placing full confidence in its ambitious powertrains project.

Verstappen hopes for "rocket" engine

Reigning champion Max Verstappen is also invested in Red Bull's engine plans. While admitting some uncertainty, he hopes the 2026 power unit proves highly competitive.

"We all hope it will be a rocket. We will see," said Verstappen.

With hundreds working hard at the Milton Keynes factory, the team is striving to make a smooth transition to running its own engines when the new regulations kick in.

Ultimately, Red Bull is firmly committing to becoming a power unit manufacturer, regardless of any risks. Marko and Verstappen's updates indicate good early progress, but the true test will come in 2026.