Verstappen will not drive on Monday, Hadjar completes the day for Red Bull

Max Verstappen will not drive during the first day of testing in Barcelona.

The first pre-season test has begun at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, after earlier today, the team has unveiled the new RB22 as well.

Previously, GPblog has learned that the original plan to have both Isack Hadjar and Verstappen drive the new Red Bull Racing car for the first time on Monday. The RB22 is yet to complete any shakedowns until today.

However, the Dutchman did not complete laps in the morning, and won't so either during the afternoon. It is not known when Verstappen would now complete his first laps with the 2026 car. Tuesday doesn't seem like an option either due to poor weather conditions.

Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

It was Hadjar behind the will earlier today, and he will continue during the second half of the first practice day. During the five-day pre-season event, teams can use up to three days of testing.

During the first part of today's session, the Frenchman set the fastest time as well.

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