Johnny Herbert has spoken about Red Bull’s 2026 project and the potential difficulties Milton Keynes may face. According to the former driver, Red Bull is struggling with its Power Unit
A fiery Johnny Herbert is once again shaking up the paddock. Just days before the start of the 2025 season, the former FIA commissioner—recently dismissed by Ben Sulayem—has sparked fresh debate, this time over Red Bull’s Power Unit for 2026. As a former Benetton and Tyrrell driver, a respected paddock voice, and an F1 journalist for the official channel, Herbert has dropped yet another bombshell—this time, a real warning for the Bulls of Milton Keynes.
The topic? The 2026 PU, where Red Bull is reportedly facing severe delays and major difficulties. In an interview with the platform CasinoApps, Herbert made some bold statements that may hold a kernel of truth. Skeptical about the team’s split from Honda—who will have a multi-year partnership with Aston Martin from 2026—Herbert did not hold back, openly questioning Red Bull’s new collaboration with Ford.
Herbert on the Red Bull 2026: “They are in serious trouble”. Then his words on Max…
Herbert stated: “It is said that Red Bull is encountering more difficulties than expected and that the results are not encouraging“.He also weighed in on the (im)possible departure of Max Verstappen, who, according to some, could move to Aston Martin in the future: “This could make Verstappen’s decision easier.”
““He knows things aren’t going as planned, while Aston Martin will have the same engine that has already won, plus Adrian Newey. It wouldn’t be surprising if he decided to switch. He’s no fool—he wants to keep winning“.
Herbert’s explosive remarks, however, are not entirely new. Just days ago, we reported on Red Bull’s concerns about their 2026 Power Unit, which now seem well-founded. Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen themselves have also hinted at uncertainties following this year’s Bahrain testing. We will see how things unfold, as Red Bull and Verstappen head into a 2025 season that could be more crucial than ever.
Photo: Oracle Red Bull Racing, FIA.com