Given that it’s the first time in their F1 history they will do so, there are questions about how competitive Red Bull will be relative to proven manufacturers such as Ferrari or Mercedes.

“It’s a tough moment for everyone in the paddock,” he added. “Lewis started a chain of events. It’s almost like a tetris game has been unleashed and we’re waiting to see where all these pieces are going to fit. Ultimately right now, this Red Bull is still a cut above the rest.

“For Max, he will be looking for a car he can have championship wins with. We know his ambition isn’t to stay in F1 forever. Essentially, he’s going to go where he’s promised a good team.

“2026 regulations change – will Red Bull still have a dominant car? Is that Red Bull engine rumoured to be good or not? That potentially could be something starting this rumour.”

Former W Series driver Naomi Schiff suggested that rumours could stem from the fact that Red Bull is building their own power unit for 2026.

Given that it’s the first time in their F1 history they will do so, there are questions about how competitive Red Bull will be relative to proven manufacturers such as Ferrari or Mercedes.

“It’s a tough moment for everyone in the paddock,” he added. “Lewis started a chain of events. It’s almost like a Tetris game has been unleashed and we’re waiting to see where all these pieces are going to fit. Ultimately right now, this Red Bull is still a cut above the rest.

“For Max, he will be looking for a car he can have championship wins with. We know his ambition isn’t to stay in F1 forever. Essentially, he’s going to go where he’s promised a good team.

“2026 regulations change – will Red Bull still have a dominant car? Is that Red Bull engine rumored to be good or not? That potentially could be something starting this rumor.”