Max Verstappen, driver for Red Bull Racing, gained valuable insight into the competitiveness of the RB22 during the recent shakedown test in Barcelona ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Although no team revealed their full potential, the week-long trials at the Circuit de Catalunya offered a preliminary glimpse of where 10 of the 11 cars currently stand, with Williams unable to participate.
Verstappen completed numerous laps on the final day, and the new Red Bull Powertrains power unit appeared reliable, showing no significant technical faults. The team will likely find encouragement in these initial outings despite a setback caused by Isack Hadjar’s crash on the second day, which forced Red Bull to urgently ship spare parts to Barcelona to complete testing.
Barcelona Testing Highlights and Early Performance Gaps
Lewis Hamilton set the pace during the shakedown, but the time differences between teams were minimal, indicating a tightly contested field. Verstappen and other drivers now prepare for additional testing in Bahrain, with six more days scheduled before the season’s official start in Australia. The testing has fueled anticipation about prediction possibilities for surprise podium finishers in the upcoming campaign.
Verstappen’s Unexpected Podium Prediction for 2026
During a recent Instagram session, both Verstappen and Isack Hadjar were asked whom they expected to secure a surprise podium this season. Hadjar replied with humor, saying, “Not me, not you, hopefully!”
“They should be expected. I would like to see Gabi [Bortoleto] on the podium.”
— Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
Verstappen expressed admiration for Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto, predicting that he could achieve his first Formula 1 podium in 2026 despite currently not being affiliated with either of the Red Bull-backed teams.
Insights into Bortoleto’s Potential and Racing Circle
Bortoleto’s chances of living up to Verstappen’s podium prediction remain a topic of interest within the Formula 1 community. When asked about which race may offer the most overtaking opportunities, Verstappen humorously pointed to Monaco, while Hadjar argued that Monza, with its overtaking-friendly straights, would see the highest number of maneuvers.
“I think Monza is going to be lots of them. You can overtake, and then go back on the same straight! Monza, easily.”
— Isack Hadjar, Formula 1 Driver
Gabriel Bortoleto, a young Brazilian driver, is considered a rising talent following his progression into Sauber and McLaren’s junior programs, under the guidance of mentor Fernando Alonso. His close relationship with Verstappen is somewhat unusual given their seven-year age gap and lack of prior real-world racing encounters.
The Connection Between Verstappen and Bortoleto
The friendship between Verstappen and Bortoleto largely developed through their shared interest in sim racing, where they have competed in virtual events together. Bortoleto has acknowledged learning from Verstappen, who has offered advice on race strategies, including tire selections. Verstappen even attempted to secure a seat for Bortoleto within the Red Bull setup early in his career, but that opportunity did not materialize.
Instead, Fernando Alonso has played a crucial role in guiding Bortoleto, particularly by facilitating his entry into McLaren’s junior academy before his move to Sauber last year. Red Bull has faced challenges finding a teammate capable of matching Verstappen’s performance, so if Isack Hadjar does not meet expectations, it is plausible that Bortoleto could attract Red Bull’s attention due to his prior connections with Verstappen.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 F1 Season and Its Implications
As testing concludes and the 2026 season approaches, Verstappen’s positive outlook for Bortoleto points to fresh contenders possibly shaking up the usual dynamics on the grid. The emerging talent of new drivers may compel established teams like Red Bull and McLaren to adjust their strategies and line-ups. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see whether Bortoleto can realize Verstappen’s prediction and claim a surprise podium, contributing to an exciting and unpredictable championship.
