Max Verstappen identifies engine braking issues ahead of Mexico race
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 4, 2026, 1:46 PM
Last updated Nov 4, 2026
Max Verstappen, driving for Red Bull, has raised concerns about engine braking issues with his team's new power unit prior to the race weekend at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez on November 4, 2026. While Red Bull's engine performed well in initial tests at high altitude, Verstappen reported feeling inconsistent braking response during his time in Austin and reiterated the need for improvements. Team principal Laurent Mekies acknowledged the engine's strong performance but expressed caution about future developments. The team is also making progress with the car's race starts, despite ongoing challenges.
- •Verstappen describes engine braking as inconsistent and 'random'.
- •Red Bull Ford Powertrains passed tests at altitude but requires further adjustments.
- •Team principal Mekies notes ongoing work on start performance.
- •Verstappen's issue could affect race performance in Mexico City.
- 1:46 PMYahoo Sports — Max Verstappen needs "a conversation" with Red Bull engine after "random" engine braking issues
- 1:46 PMMotorsport.com — Max Verstappen needs "a conversation" with Red Bull engine after "random" engine braking issues
"Ahead of the race weekend at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez – at 2,286 metres above sea level, by far the highest circuit on the Formula 1 calendar – the discussion in the paddock largely revolved around one subject: how much of a challenge Mexico City would pose for the 2026 power units. Several manufacturers feared severe turbo lag, especially now that the MGU-H is no longer there to ...Keep reading
"Although Red Bull Ford Powertrains passed its first test at high altitude with flying colours, Verstappen believes there are still areas for improvement
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsNov 4, 2026, 1:46 PMMax Verstappen needs "a conversation" with Red Bull engine after "random" engine braking issues
Although Red Bull Ford Powertrains passed its first test at high altitude with flying colours, Verstappen believes there are still areas for improvement
- Motorsport.comNov 4, 2026, 1:46 PMMax Verstappen needs "a conversation" with Red Bull engine after "random" engine braking issues
Ahead of the race weekend at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez – at 2,286 metres above sea level, by far the highest circuit on the Formula 1 calendar – the discussion in the paddock largely revolved around one subject: how much of a challenge Mexico City would pose for the 2026 power units. Several manufacturers feared severe turbo lag, especially now that the MGU-H is no longer there to ...Keep reading
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