Max Verstappen has voiced fresh concerns about Red Bull’s competitiveness heading into the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix, suggesting that the team’s long-standing struggles with bumps and kerbs could once again prove costly on the streets of Monte Carlo.
The four-time world champion spoke candidly about Red Bull’s challenges during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend, admitting that Monaco’s unique characteristics may expose one of the RB team’s most persistent weaknesses. While much of the pre-race discussion has focused on whether Ferrari can disrupt Mercedes’ dominance in 2026, Verstappen appeared far less optimistic about Red Bull’s chances of joining the fight at the front.
Monaco is renowned for its narrow layout, uneven surface, and aggressive kerbs, all of which place significant demands on a car’s suspension and ride quality. Historically, Red Bull has struggled more than some of its rivals in these conditions, and Verstappen acknowledged that he does not expect a dramatic improvement this season.
Speaking with characteristic humor, the Dutchman joked that he may need to “order a new back” before tackling the demanding Monaco circuit, highlighting the physical discomfort drivers can experience when a car reacts harshly to bumps and kerbs. Although the remark was made lightheartedly, it underlined genuine concerns about how the current Red Bull package will perform over one of Formula 1’s most unforgiving tracks.
The comments come at a time when Red Bull has been working to close the gap to the leading teams. However, despite progress in several areas, Verstappen suggested that the team’s ride characteristics remain an unresolved issue. Monaco’s low-speed corners and constant elevation changes are expected to place those limitations under the spotlight once again.
While Ferrari has been identified by some paddock observers as a potential challenger for victory in Monaco due to the circuit’s unique demands, Verstappen believes Red Bull faces a difficult weekend unless significant improvements can be found. The Dutchman indicated that the team’s current package is not naturally suited to the circuit and warned that extracting maximum performance could be a major challenge.
Even so, Verstappen remains one of Formula 1’s most formidable competitors, and his ability to deliver strong results in difficult circumstances cannot be underestimated. But as Monaco approaches, the reigning champion has made it clear that concerns remain over Red Bull’s ability to handle the circuit’s notorious bumps and kerbs, a factor that could play a decisive role in determining the team’s fortunes during one of the sport’s most prestigious events.