Verstappen Sets Miami Objective After Key Silverstone Test

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has set a clear target for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix: close the performance gap to the top three and turn a shaky start to the 2026 season around. A recent test at Silverstone gave him a chance to try new aerodynamic upgrades and get back in the car after a long break. He left the session hopeful that the RB22 can be more competitive in Florida.

Why it matters:

• Red Bull’s early‑season struggles have put the championship lead in jeopardy.
• Miami is the first race where the team can test a revised aero package against race conditions.
• Closing the gap to the front‑runners is essential for Verstappen’s bid for a fourth title.

The details:

• Test focus – Evaluated a Ferrari‑inspired “macarena” rear wing and other aero tweaks to boost downforce without extra drag.
• Driving feel – Said the day helped him “reconnect” with the RB22, confirming the power unit is still the car’s strongest asset.
• Performance gap – RB22 still trails rivals in cornering speed, but aero updates should shave tenths off lap times.

What's next:

• Verstappen and Red Bull will travel to Miami on Thursday for media duties, then hit the track on Friday for practice sessions.
• The team plans to run the new rear‑wing design in qualifying, hoping it will improve turn‑one grip on the tight street circuit.
• If the upgrades deliver, Red Bull could challenge for a podium finish and keep Verstappen’s championship campaign alive.