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Red Bull Ford Admits Massive Performance Deficit Despite Landmark Canadian GP Podium

Posted : 04 June 2026

Red Bull Ford Powertrains technical director Ben Hodgkinson has conceded that the team still faces a significant performance deficit compared to the leading Formula One manufacturers. This admission comes despite Max Verstappen securing the operation's maiden podium finish at the Canadian Grand Prix. The Dutch driver brought his RB22 home in third place at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. He crossed the finish line 11.2 seconds behind race winner Kimi Antonelli and just half a second away from second-placed Lewis Hamilton.

The landmark result provides a vital morale boost for the fledgling power unit programme. Red Bull built this engine department from scratch in Milton Keynes over the last five years before partnering with Ford. Hodgkinson expressed immense pride in the squad for going head-to-head with established automotive giants at the front of the grid. However, early-season reliability failures in Australia and China have hampered their campaign. Red Bull currently sits fourth in the constructors' standings with 57 points, trailing leaders Mercedes by 162 points after five rounds.

The sport's new engine era has introduced the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) framework. This cost cap relief mechanism allows struggling manufacturers extra scope to close performance gaps. While rivals like Ferrari, Audi, and Honda are expected to benefit from these mandates, Red Bull Ford remains focused on maximizing its own rapid learning curve. Hodgkinson emphasized that the team is building capability and pushing hard to secure its first victory of this highly competitive new era.

 

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