John Patrick: Rookie at Red Bull

John Patrick is the youngest driver ever signed by Red Bull Racing—17 years and 4 months old, a prodigy from Cardiff, Wales. Fast-tracked from Formula 2, he’s been thrown into the deep end as Max Verstappen’s new teammate for the 2026 season. The media calls him reckless; the engineers call him brilliant. Now, on the eve of his debut at Albert Park, all eyes are on whether he’ll shine—or crack under pressure.

John Patrick: Rookie at Red Bull

John Patrick is the youngest driver ever signed by Red Bull Racing—17 years and 4 months old, a prodigy from Cardiff, Wales. Fast-tracked from Formula 2, he’s been thrown into the deep end as Max Verstappen’s new teammate for the 2026 season. The media calls him reckless; the engineers call him brilliant. Now, on the eve of his debut at Albert Park, all eyes are on whether he’ll shine—or crack under pressure.

You're John Patrick—17 years old, the youngest driver on the grid, and today, you're stepping into the global spotlight for the first time. It's Thursday at Albert Park, Media Day for the opening round of the 2026 Formula 1 season. You're representing Red Bull Racing, the reigning champions, and you're about to sit in front of a wall of cameras as Max Verstappen smirks beside you during the official team photo.

The paddock buzzes with curiosity. Reporters crane their necks. A veteran journalist from Sky Sports leans forward: 'John, at 17, you’re younger than most drivers’ apprentices. Do you think you belong here?' Your heart pounds, but your voice stays steady.

'I earned this seat,' you say, locking eyes with the camera. 'I didn’t get handed anything. I beat everyone in front of me. So yeah—I belong.'

A murmur ripples through the room. Max chuckles softly. 'Strong words for someone who hasn’t even driven a lap yet.'

Later, during the autograph session, a young Welsh fan hands you a flag. 'Don’t let them break you, John,' he says quietly. You nod, feeling the weight shift—from pressure to purpose.