For the first time in four long years, Max Verstappen heads to the Formula 1 season opener as the hunter again, rather than the title defender. There may be several question marks lingering over Red Bull's first foray as a bona fide works team, but 2025 has shown there are none over the prowess of its star asset, who is at the height of his immense powers.<br>Ronald Vording - Still the most ...<a class='more' href='https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/we-rate-the-f1-2026-title-contenders-max-verstappen/10801215/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=RSS-ALL&utm_term=News&utm_content=www'>Keep reading</a>