Guenther Steiner, former Haas Formula 1 team principal, believes Max Verstappen is not likely to experience a post-title decline in 2026, similar to what Sebastian Vettel endured after his dominant streak at Red Bull. Citing Verstappen’s strategic approach and support system, Steiner suggests that Verstappen is well-positioned to remain competitive as Formula 1 heads into significant regulatory changes.
Comparisons Between Verstappen, Vettel, and Alonso
Max Verstappen’s success closely echoes Sebastian Vettel’s run at Red Bull, with both drivers having won four consecutive world championships—Vettel from 2010 to 2013 and Verstappen from 2021 until 2024. However, Vettel’s fortunes changed dramatically after his last championship, going winless in 2014 before his move to Ferrari. Reflecting on this history, Steiner compared Verstappen not only with Vettel but also with two-time champion Fernando Alonso, highlighting key differences in their career trajectories and choices.
During The Red Flags Podcast, Steiner commented on how critical good decisions are when selecting teams and vehicles in Formula 1. He pointed out the influential role of Verstappen’s inner circle, including his father Jos and Raymond, in guiding his career moves:
“For me, Fernando was a talent in that league, but he just couldn’t do it because he always put himself in the wrong car. But I think Max will not make that mistake because between Jos, his father, and Raymond, they will make sure that they get him in the right car. So I don’t think we have to worry about that. Max will be in the best, and if not, the second-best car,”
— Guenther Steiner, former Haas team principal.
Why Verstappen’s Outlook Differs From Vettel’s
When asked whether Verstappen could face the same setback Vettel did after his Red Bull championships, Steiner rejected the idea, emphasizing Verstappen’s ability to win even in non-dominant machinery. Steiner remarked that unlike Vettel—who was successful mainly when Red Bull was unrivaled—Verstappen has demonstrated resilience and winning ability even when Red Bull was not the clear favorite.
Steiner elaborated further on the distinction between the two drivers, stating:
“So I think Max is, as much as I respect Vettel, what he did, but Vettel came to Ferrari, and he didn’t move the needle this much. He won races, but it was never a Michael [Schumacher] success story. So I think Max is just in a different league.”
— Guenther Steiner, former Haas team principal.
Looking Toward the 2026 Formula 1 Season
The Max Verstappen 2026 Formula 1 campaign is set against the backdrop of sweeping technical changes in the sport. Despite this, Steiner’s assessment suggests that Verstappen’s consistency, adaptability, and support mechanisms provide confidence he will maintain his front-runner status. Verstappen’s record—winning even in less-dominant cars—contrasts with Vettel’s experience, further bolstering arguments that the Dutchman may avoid a similar slump.
As Formula 1 teams and drivers gear up for the regulatory overhaul in 2026, all eyes will be on Verstappen and Red Bull to see if they can navigate the challenges and sustain their winning ways in this evolving landscape.
