Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has raised concerns about his physical condition ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix.
Speaking to the Dutch media at the Canadian Grand Prix, Verstappen made clear he is not optimistic about Red Bull’s prospects on the streets of Monaco.
The 2026 season has so far been characterised by Mercedes dominance, with Ferrari tipped as the team most likely to challenge at Monaco.
For Ferrari, the race presents a genuine opportunity to contend for a win for the first time this season, but Verstappen does not share that same sense of optimism for Red Bull.
One of Red Bull’s persistent weaknesses in recent seasons has been handling bumps and kerbs, an issue that remains unresolved heading into Monaco.
Verstappen was candid about the problem, saying: “Anywhere that it’s bumpy is going to be difficult for us.”
He elaborated further, explaining: “That has to do with the philosophy of our car at the moment, how you set it up to take the bumps versus the amount of downforce.”
Verstappen acknowledged some minor improvement had been found in Miami but noted the conditions there made the problem less pronounced than it will be in Monaco.
He said: “It was a bit better in Miami, but of course it wasn’t so bumpy there. That makes it easier for us to find the right set-up.”
Beyond the car’s handling characteristics, Verstappen also revealed that the current ground effect era has taken a significant toll on his body, particularly his back.
He joked about his deteriorating physical condition, saying: “Oh yes, that is going to be great. I think I’m going to order a new back!”
Verstappen then reflected more seriously on the underlying issue, admitting the cause is not yet fully understood by his team.
He added: “If only we knew exactly what was causing it. I do have some ideas, and that’s what we’re going to work on now.”
The comments paint a challenging picture for Verstappen and Red Bull ahead of one of the most physically demanding circuits on the calendar.
Monaco’s notoriously tight and bumpy street layout is likely to expose the weaknesses in the Red Bull package that have troubled Verstappen throughout the 2026 season.