Red Bull drivers wary of Spa-Francorchamps challenges as Max Verstappen warns "it will be trickier"

Red Bull arrive in Belgium after a disappointing British Grand Prix exposed weaknesses in their package. Silverstone also highlighted wider concerns about how the current regulations affect racing at fast, flowing circuits.

Spa presents different demands but several familiar problems. Its long straights, high-speed corners and energy requirements could again expose the limitations of Formula 1’s machinery.

Verstappen remains cautiously optimistic because of Red Bull’s strong record in Belgium. However, he admitted energy management could make his favourite circuit considerably more difficult this season.

Verstappen used the short break after Silverstone to return to Red Bull’s factory and complete simulator work. His preparations come amid continued speculation about his future following Red Bull’s underwhelming start to the 2026 season.

Spa has often provided happier memories. Verstappen enjoys enormous support at the Belgian venue and will again race with his special Orange Lion helmet.

However, Verstappen warned that the cars could struggle to maintain electrical deployment across Spa’s lengthy full-throttle sections. Verstappen said: “It has been good to have a bit of a break and, although Silverstone was a tough weekend, I have been back at the factory with the Team last week on the sim.

“Looking to Spa, it is my favourite track on the calendar and is always good to be back. I think it could be trickier with the energy management limitations on the straights but we have historically done well here so you never know what will happen.

“I will be back wearing the special Orange Lion helmet which is a tribute to the fans, who are incredible here and have given me huge support over the years,"  added Verstappen.

Energy deployment will be particularly important from La Source through Eau Rouge and Raidillon towards Les Combes. Drivers need sustained power across that section while preserving enough energy for later straights. Poor management could leave cars vulnerable in attack and defence.

Hadjar expects Red Bull to begin the weekend behind the leading teams. He believes lessons from Silverstone must be applied quickly if the team are to score stronger points.

The Frenchman arrives in Belgium after appearing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where he drove Red Bull’s RB9 and RB17. Hadjar said: “I spent last weekend down at Goodwood, where I got to drive RB17 and RB9. As a racer, you live for the sounds those cars make, so it was pretty cool to be there.

“Heading into this double-header, I know that the Team and I are going to give it everything we can before the summer break. I’ve been performing consistently in the European rounds so far, and I want to continue that while pushing for more points.

“Spa is such a classic circuit, and although it’ll be different under these regulations, it promises a new challenge for us as drivers. It has characteristics similar to Silverstone, so we don’t expect to lead the way, but hopefully we’ll have taken the learnings from there into this weekend.”

Hadjar’s assessment underlines Red Bull’s reduced expectations. The team are no longer travelling to circuits such as Spa assuming they possess the package to control the weekend. Instead, Red Bull must manage their weaknesses, maximise opportunities and hope unusual characteristics bring the field closer together.

Spa remains one of Formula 1’s greatest tests. This weekend, it will also deliver another verdict on whether the current cars suit the circuits that once showcased grand prix racing at its best.