Max Verstappen Struggles with Undriveable Red Bull at Chinese Grand Prix

Max Verstappen faced significant difficulties during the qualifying session for the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix, finishing in eighth place, nearly one second behind pole-sitter Kimi Antonelli. The four-time world champion described his experience as being in "survival mode," emphasizing that he feels a lack of control over his Red Bull RB22. Following a disappointing sprint race where he finished ninth, Verstappen expressed frustration with the car's performance, stating, "Every lap is like survival."

ESPNVerstappen describes Red Bull’s struggles after qualifying eighth at Chinese GPRTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

Verstappen's struggles stem from a combination of factors affecting the car's handling, including both oversteer and understeer. He noted that despite significant adjustments made to the vehicle before qualifying, there was no improvement in performance. "We changed a lot on the car, but it made zero difference," he remarked. This ongoing issue has led Verstappen to conclude that Red Bull is currently the fourth strongest team in the championship, stating, "We are where we should be, and that’s probably where we will be racing tomorrow."

Verstappen describes Red Bull’s struggles after qualifying eighth at Chinese GP

Verstappen has been a vocal critic of the new Formula One regulations introduced at the start of the 2026 season, which he has likened to a video game experience. He expressed his dissatisfaction, saying, "From lap one of this new regulation, I have not enjoyed this car." His comments reflect a broader concern among drivers regarding the impact of the new rules on car performance and driver enjoyment.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

In his post-qualifying remarks, Verstappen conveyed a sense of resignation about the upcoming race, indicating that he does not expect significant improvement. He stated, "In my current position, it’s not going to be a fun race." His sentiments highlight the challenges faced by Red Bull Racing as they navigate the early season with a car that is not meeting performance expectations.

Verstappen describes Red Bull’s struggles after qualifying eighth at Chinese GP

• “Every lap is like survival.” — Max Verstappen, Four-Time World Champion

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

• “We changed a lot on the car (before qualifying) and it made zero difference.” — Max Verstappen

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

• “Plus, I cannot push at all, because the car doesn't let me.” — Max Verstappen

ESPN

• “Since the first lap with this new regulation, I have never enjoyed this car,” — Max Verstappen

Verstappen describes Red Bull’s struggles after qualifying eighth at Chinese GP

• “We are where we should be, and that’s probably where we will be racing tomorrow,” — Max Verstappen

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

As the Chinese Grand Prix approaches, Verstappen's focus will be on managing the challenges presented by the car's performance. He expressed hope that future races might yield better results, stating, "I hope on other tracks we can be a bit closer." However, without significant changes to the car, he anticipates continuing difficulties in the championship standings.

Verstappen describes Red Bull’s struggles after qualifying eighth at Chinese GP