Max Verstappen will reduce his time at home this week to work with engineers and team management during Red Bull’s ongoing crisis.
Liam Lawson’s potential loss of his seat is making news, but the main issue is not just the challenging nature of the RB21, but that – as Verstappen claims – it is slower than the McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes.
Team advisor Dr. Helmut Marko noted while departing from Shanghai that essential upgrades will be accelerated for implementation at Suzuka.
A solution like that, if it proves effective, would be excellent. However, we cannot depend on it, cautioned the 81-year-old Austrian.
Four-time world champion Verstappen is also uncertain.
The Dutchman remarked that it’s hard to determine when improvements will occur. Ideally in Japan, of course.
Marko highlighted an important meeting in Milton-Keynes this week, and it has come to light that 27-year-old Verstappen will attend. Marko confirmed that Max will visit the factory to talk about the weaknesses.
This is in contrast to the driver’s initial intentions of being at home in Monaco with his girlfriend Kelly Piquet, who is heavily pregnant. It has been reported that a plane will be available should he need to quickly return if Kelly goes into labor.
Marko isn’t concerned that the arrival of Max’s baby will shift his concentration, however.
He stated to Osterreich newspaper that it won’t disturb him. The championship and the race are his top priority.
Red Bull Racing is currently facing significant challenges in the 2025 Formula 1 season, with performance issues plaguing their RB21 car and internal team dynamics under scrutiny. Max Verstappen’s decision to cut short his time at home to collaborate closely with the team’s engineers and management underscores the urgency of addressing these concerns.
The RB21 has been underperforming compared to rivals such as McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes. Verstappen has openly expressed frustration over the car’s competitiveness, noting that victories seem contingent on the misfortune of other teams. He highlighted the car’s handling difficulties, particularly in maintaining consistent balance, which adversely affects tire degradation and overall performance.
Technical Director Pierre Wache acknowledged the team’s challenges, admitting a loss of confidence in the tools used to extract performance from the RB21. This hesitancy stems from previous balance issues and correlation problems experienced with the RB20. Wache emphasized the need to modify their tools to regain trust in the data and results, highlighting the complexities involved in achieving accurate performance assessments.
In response to these performance issues, Red Bull is expediting essential upgrades for the RB21, aiming for implementation at the Suzuka circuit. While this strategy demonstrates the team’s proactive approach, Dr. Helmut Marko cautioned against relying solely on these upgrades, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive solution to the underlying problems.
Compounding the team’s challenges are internal dynamics, particularly concerning driver line-ups. Liam Lawson’s position within the team is under threat following a series of underwhelming performances. Reports suggest that Yuki Tsunoda, currently impressing with Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls, is being considered as a replacement. This potential change has sparked criticism, with pundits labeling the decision as chaotic and detrimental to team stability.
Despite these internal and external pressures, Verstappen remains committed to the team’s success. His decision to attend the critical meeting in Milton-Keynes reflects his dedication to addressing the RB21’s weaknesses collaboratively. This move comes despite personal commitments, as his partner, Kelly Piquet, is expecting their child soon. Arrangements have been made to ensure Verstappen can return swiftly if necessary, highlighting the delicate balance between his professional and personal responsibilities.
Dr. Marko has expressed confidence in Verstappen’s ability to maintain focus during this tumultuous period. He emphasized that the championship and upcoming races remain Verstappen’s top priorities, indicating trust in the driver’s professionalism and commitment to the team’s objectives.
As Red Bull navigates these multifaceted challenges, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the team’s trajectory for the remainder of the season. The effectiveness of the planned upgrades, resolution of internal team dynamics, and Verstappen’s leadership will collectively influence Red Bull’s ability to reclaim competitiveness in the 2025 Formula 1 championship.
