Ralf Schumacher's Bold Claim: Verstappen Could Win F1 Title with Racing Bulls

Ralf Schumacher, a six-time Grand Prix winner, has made a remarkable claim: Max Verstappen could potentially compete for the Formula 1 drivers' championship with Racing Bulls. Schumacher argues that the Faenza-based squad possesses a superior 'base' to build from compared to its sister team, Red Bull.

Why it matters:

This assertion is significant because it challenges the long-held perception that Red Bull is the only team within the energy drink conglomerate capable of winning titles. It also highlights a potential underlying strength in the Racing Bulls' car, the VCARB 02.

The big picture:

Schumacher believes that Racing Bulls' car allows for a 'better compromise' in setup, making it more versatile across various F1 circuits. He suggests that while Red Bull tends to produce cars with more extreme characteristics, which Verstappen often prefers, even the Dutchman has had to adapt as the Milton Keynes team has encountered difficulties in recent seasons.

• Current Performance Disparity: The discussion gained traction due to the performance differences between drivers this season.
  • Yuki Tsunoda, driving the RB21, has scored a modest nine points since being promoted to Red Bull after two rounds.
  • In contrast, Liam Lawson has accumulated 20 points, and Isack Hadjar, fresh off a maiden podium at Zandvoort, secured 37 points in the VCARB 02 during the same period.
• Verstappen Test Proposal: The growing points gap led to suggestions that Max Verstappen should test the VCARB 02 to provide a clearer comparison, though Racing Bulls boss Alan Permane dismissed this idea at Zandvoort.

What's next:

Schumacher's hypothetical scenario focuses on next season, when F1 introduces significant overhauls to chassis and power unit regulations. He contends that with identical engines for both teams, Racing Bulls' more adaptable car could offer Verstappen a stronger platform.

"I would almost go so far as to say that Max Verstappen could theoretically even compete for the world championship with that car," Schumacher told Sky Sport Germany's F1 podcast, Backstage Boxengasse. "The car has just a wider set-up, so you can do well with it on any circuit. And I think a better compromise can be found."