Sep.4 (GMM) Max Verstappen says Red Bull remains in talks with the FIA over the ADUO engine system after the governing body twice concluded that Red Bull-Ford has Formula 1’s benchmark combustion engine.
The first ADUO review, completed after the early-season assessment period, put Red Bull-Ford on top and therefore gave it no extra homologation opportunities, while Mercedes qualified for one additional upgrade and Ferrari, Honda and Audi for two.
The FIA’s second review, completed after Hungary, again left Red Bull-Ford as the benchmark and awarded no further homologations to any manufacturer.
That means Red Bull has now been locked out of the ADUO concessions through both assessments, despite Verstappen and the team continuing to argue that the overall Red Bull-Ford power unit is not actually the strongest package.
“We are surprised as a team and we see it very differently ourselves,” Verstappen said at Monza.
“We are currently still in talks with the FIA about next year. We will see what comes from that.”
He also warned that Monza could expose the disadvantage further as rival manufacturers introduce upgrades.
“Our rivals are currently bringing their engine upgrades to the cars,” said Verstappen.
“We were already at a disadvantage before. And I don’t expect much to change that at the moment.”
Verstappen meanwhile revealed just how unwell he had been during his difficult Zandvoort weekend, where he crashed heavily on the opening lap.
“I was very sick,” he admitted.
“When you’re so sick, you appreciate it so much more when you’re fully recovered. The whole weekend in Zandvoort was a drama.”
“After Zandvoort I still didn’t feel good for a few days. It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this way.”
He said the impact itself caused no lasting concern thanks to the SAFER barrier.
“It was the first time I hit that SAFER wall,” he said. “It did its job pretty well.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES