Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen believes Red Bull Racing needs a significant "rebuilding" phase to return to its championship-winning form. This comes after the team's notable performance dip and key personnel changes.
Why it matters:
Red Bull, which dominated F1 for four years in the current ground effect era (similar to 2010-2013), has seen a sharp decline. They finished third in the 2024 constructors' championship behind McLaren and Ferrari and are currently fourth in 2025, trailing McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes. This indicates a major challenge for the once-unrivalled team.
The details:
- Red Bull is currently fourth in the constructors' standings at the F1 summer break.
- Significant off-track changes have occurred: Christian Horner was replaced as CEO and Team Principal by Laurent Mekies on July 9.
- The decision is thought to be linked to the departures of several key figures, including Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley.
- Verstappen described the current situation as a "slight rebuilding" phase, comparing it to the period before his arrival when the team was also rebuilding.
- Despite the team's struggles, Verstappen has personally delivered strong results, securing 187 of Red Bull's 194 points this season, placing him third in the drivers' standings.
What's next:
Formula 1 resumes after the summer break with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort from August 29-31, which is Max Verstappen's home race. He remains optimistic about the team's inherent ability to fight back from setbacks.