Max Verstappen: “That’s the only right thing to do” – swivel wing on hold

Final practice session for the Austrian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen is on course for a place on the front row of the grid when, to the horror of his fans, he veers off the track – the rear wing had switched to the downforce setting too late.

British Grand Prix at Silverstone: Max Verstappen is on course for third place when he flies off the track at Stowe – yet another problem with the rear wing.

Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies has admitted that there are difficulties with the rotating wing mechanism. As a result, it has been decided not to use this wing in Belgium.

Speaking at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Max Verstappen said: “We’ll lose a bit of competitiveness as a result, but it’s not the end of the world for us. It was clear to everyone – this is the only right thing to do.”

“Our team have identified the problem; now they need to find a solution without any pressure. I’m convinced they’ll manage it, and then we’ll use this wing again.”

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Spa-Francorchamps: FP1

FIA Formula One World Championship

17.07.2026 - 13:15

How strong will Red Bull Racing be in Belgium and at the subsequent Grand Prix weekends? The 71-time Grand Prix winner replies: “Everything will depend on the developments made by the various teams. We know what we’ve set in motion ourselves, but of course we don’t know what our rivals are planning. Ultimately, our approach won’t change – we try to make the most of our potential every weekend.”