How Red Bull cured weaknesses to give Verstappen his first 2026 victory

Max Verstappen secured his first victory of the 2026 season following technical improvements introduced by Red Bull Racing. The team's path to victory was laid about ten days prior when they introduced a heavily upgraded RB22 car in Baku, which the team labeled as their final major upgrade package of the season.

The development package featured an extensive set of new parts, including a redesigned floor body and diffuser, revised sidepods, cooling louvres, mirrors, and a modified halo fairing. While initial qualifying in Baku was hindered by engine issues and yellow flags, the upgraded car enabled Verstappen's comfortable win in the subsequent race.