Max Verstappen's 4-word response when questioned about Red Bull's first power unit

Max Verstappen had a hilarious four-word response when asked about the 2026 Red Bull engine, saying that it "makes a noise." The Dutchman did not give away too much, as he discussed the first-ever F1 power unit developed by Red Bull in partnership with Ford for the 2026 season and beyond.

Verstappen almost pulled off the impossible task in the second half of the 2025 F1 season as he came back from a 104-point deficit in Round 15 to within two points of the lead at the end of the season in Abu Dhabi. Lando Norris did enough in the end to secure his maiden title after finishing third in the Emirati capital.

Verstappen and Red Bull's focus has quickly shifted over to the 2026 season as we enter a new era in F1 from next season onwards. The 4x world champion previewed the upcoming season in the latest episode of the Talking Bulls podcast and discussed the new power unit.

Verstappen also made a hilarious joke when asked about what the new engine sounded like by the podcast host Nicola Hume, saying:

"Hmm, it makes a noise."

He then also added:

"I mean, it sounded good. Of course you hear it on a dyno, but it sounded like, crisp. I'm not sure they develop on the noise but it made a good noise. I mean it's not a V10."

Red Bull Powertrains in partnership with Ford are developing their first engine. Even before its debut, their power unit is under scrutiny amid reports that Red Bull and Mercedes mgiht have exploited an engine loophole in the new regulations for performance and reliability gains. Rival manufacturers Ferrari, Audi, and Honda have already contacted the FIA seeking clarification on the legality of the interpretation.

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Max Verstappen shares wholesome message for fans after 2025 season

Max Verstappen after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Source: Getty

Max Verstappen shared a heartfelt message with fans, thanking them for supporting and standing by him and Red Bull during a challenging 2025 season. When asked on the aforementioned podcast if he had a message for fans, Verstappen said:

"Thank you very much for sticking with us even in a very tough season, especially in the beginning. But at the same time, we are a team that never gives up, and I'm very proud of how we here at the factory, and our fans, of course, as well, kept it together. "And at the end of the day we celebrated, again, some very beautiful moments. So thank you very much for that. See you next year."

After his 2025 drivers’ title challenge appeared over at the halfway stage, Max Verstappen and Red Bull turned things around quite significantly. In the final 10 races, the 28-year-old claimed six victories, finished on the podium each time, and ultimately ended the season second in the championship.

Edited by Hitesh Nigam