Max in Spielberg: 'Team always goes flat out'

Published on 25 June 2026 by Stefan Meens

On a warm Thursday at the Red Bull Ring, Max Verstappen addressed the international media on a weekend in which the Dutchman’s RB22 will sport a host of updates. “This weekend is important for us. We want to keep improving. We know we lack pace and we are trying to improve. That’s what we all want, and we continue to work hard. Our starts haven’t been great either so we are working on that as well.

The Oracle Red Bull Racing driver added: “We already made improvements, but those were the ‘easier’ steps. The last few tenths, the ones you need to fight for the win, are the hardest. The team is always flat out, but other teams also bring upgrades. But we’ll try to keep closing the gap, hopefully we can starting this weekend.

Max loves his football and has been a keen follower of the FIFA 2026 World Cup. “I’ve watched a lot of games, especially the ones before midnight. I don’t watch the games at 2am or 3am. The Netherlands have done well, but it depends what teams you’ll face next. They appear to be on the more challenging side of the draw. Hopefully they do well, but there are a lot of great footballing nations. As a Dutchman, I hope we go far.”

Whilst Max will be tearing up the Red Bull Ring, father Jos will take on the legendary Ypres Rally in Belgian. Meanwhile Verstappen Racing  will contest the famous Spa 24hrs for GT3 cars. “I will follow the 24hrs closely. I would’ve loved to race myself and I’ve asked the organisation if the event could take place at a different time next year, to avoid a clash with a Grand Prix. Spa is an incredible tack and the 24hr race with only GT3 cars is really special.”