Max Verstappen reflected on the conclusion of preseason testing in Bahrain, emphasized the amount of data gathered with the RB22, and acknowledged that there are still areas to improve in order to be faster in the final phase of development.
The Dutch Red Bull Racing driver explained that the final day of testing at the Bahrain International Circuit marked the end of the second week of running ahead of the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season. During that period, Red Bull split driving time between Verstappen and Isack Hadjar to maximize track work and collect relevant technical information.
The Dutchman pointed out that although the tests allowed them to “complete almost the entire program” planned, there is still work to be done to enhance the car’s overall performance.
Verstappen described the week of testing as “a good start” and spoke positively about the number of laps completed and the data collected, stressing that it provides a solid foundation for analysis and future decision-making.
He explained that “before the Bahrain test, I think we prepared as well as possible and the team has done an excellent job to get us to where we are now,” a comment that reflects the joint effort between engineers and drivers in transitioning to the new technical regulations.
The four-time world champion also underlined that “it’s clear there’s still a lot of work to do to be faster,” making it evident that despite progress, the RB22 package still has room for optimization ahead of the season opener in Melbourne.
This reflection highlights the complexity of fine-tuning a car under the new rules and the importance of using the data gathered to guide development toward more competitive results.
The context of these tests placed Red Bull among the teams that completed a significant number of laps over the Bahrain sessions, allowing them to evaluate parameters such as tire management, aerodynamic load, and power unit response in different track conditions.
This information is particularly valuable in a season where the regulations have introduced substantial changes and require a deep understanding of the cars’ new dynamic behavior.
For his part, Isack Hadjar, who also took part in testing with the RB22, acknowledged the usefulness of the setup changes made and the clarity they provided regarding the technical direction of the project, complementing Verstappen’s observations about the progress made during the week.
Beyond Red Bull’s individual performance, the overall direction of testing in Bahrain suggests that several teams, including McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari, are also in an adjustment phase where reliability and data collection take priority ahead of qualifying and race sessions.
With the 2026 season scheduled to begin in Melbourne in early March, Verstappen’s expressed determination to continue refining the RB22 underscores that the coming weeks will be crucial in turning testing lessons into tangible improvements in the car’s competitiveness.