Max Verstappen has claimed that the Red Bull team has spent a lot of time trying to resolve their balance issues from 2024. This has also hurt the development of their 2025 challenger, the RB21, according to the Dutchman. The reigning world champion currently sits third in the drivers’ championship.
It is clear to see that the Red Bull car took a huge dip in performance in the second half of 2024. This trend has continued into 2025. Verstappen has been unable to mount a proper title defense this year due to the issues in his cars.
The Dutch driver believes last year’s problems have held Red Bull back this year. Speaking ahead of the British GP, Verstappen revealed that the Austrian team has spent a lot of time trying to fix the balance issues within their car since 2024.
“I think we are trying to find more performance in the car, but also, of course, last year we were a bit hurt with our balance issues that we had with the car,” said Verstappen. [via Motorsportweek]
“So we also had to first understand what was going on there, and for sure, that has also hurt probably a little bit, too, the future development of the car during this year.” he added.
After his DNF in Austria, Verstappen’s 2025 title charge took a huge hit. He now stands 61 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri. The McLaren looks to be too fast to catch for any other team this year. Teams will soon stop trying as well, switching their focus completely on the development of their 2026 cars.
Max Verstappen focused on “improving the situation” at Red Bull amid Mercedes links
Sky Italia‘s bombshell report has got everyone talking about Max Verstappen moving to Mercedes. On media day ahead of the British GP, the Dutch driver was hounded with questions about a potential switch to the Silver Arrows.
Verstappen remained tight-lipped on this as usual. But the 27-year-old also maintained that his focus at the moment remains only at improving the RB21 in 2025. The driver also claimed that “a lot can change” in 2026.
“That is also something I don’t spend a lot of focus [on]. I think the only focus that I have at the moment is just trying to improve the situation.” said Verstappen. [via F1.com]
“At the same time we are not where we want to be I think that’s quite clear but at the same time, next year a lot can change again. So even if you try to chase the fastest car, it might not be the fastest car next year and that’s exactly what F1 is about.” he added.
The picture will get clearer as time passes on. But it is safe to say that this is the biggest story in the F1 paddock at the moment.
