Red Bull Addresses Verstappen’s Struggles, Eyes 2025 Development
Red Bull Racing is downplaying talk of Max Verstappen potentially leaving the team amid a challenging start to the Formula 1 season, while simultaneously acknowledging the need for significant improvements. Team principal Laurent Mekies has emphasized the team’s commitment to addressing the issues impacting Verstappen’s performance, particularly relating to car development.
Verstappen has faced difficulties in the early stages of the 2026 season, a departure from his dominant form in recent years. Mekies addressed concerns, stating the team is aware of the areas needing attention. According to GP33, Mekies delivered positive news for Verstappen, suggesting a path forward is being actively pursued.
A key factor in Red Bull’s current struggles stems from the team’s decision to focus development on the 2025 car, a strategy that has come at a cost in the early part of the current season. Mekies explained, AD.nl reports, that the team anticipated paying a price for prioritizing the next year’s design. Formula1.nl adds that Mekies acknowledged the team “knew they would pay the price” for this approach.
Beyond on-track performance, Mekies similarly highlighted Verstappen’s potential for a future role beyond driving. Motorsport.com reports Mekies believes Verstappen possesses the qualities to develop into a team principal, noting his dedication to Formula 1. The driver “lives day and night for F1,” according to Mekies.
The team is focused on rectifying the current situation, with Mekies identifying a specific area for improvement. Formula 1 reports Mekies named this “important area” as a key focus for the team’s efforts.
Red Bull’s early-season struggles have been described as shooting themselves in the foot, as reported by Autoblog, but the team remains committed to turning things around and supporting Verstappen in his pursuit of another championship.
