Max Verstappen recognizes that McLaren remains out of reach in the ongoing 2025 Formula 1 season due to persistent issues with Red Bull’s car, despite the team’s recent upgrade efforts. The Dutch driver’s challenges became apparent during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend at Spa-Francorchamps, where McLaren’s pace continues to outclass Red Bull’s machinery.
During sprint qualifying, Verstappen managed to split the two McLaren cars by using a low-downforce setup, enabling him to overtake polesitter Oscar Piastri and maintain his position throughout the 15-lap sprint race. However, in the main qualifying session on Saturday, Verstappen’s performance dropped, partly due to a sudden loss of grip in the warmer conditions of Q3. This setback caused him to wait behind not only both McLarens but also Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, starting fourth on the grid.
Red Bull’s Late 2025 Upgrades Fall Short in Solving Car Balance
Red Bull has introduced several updates this season, including new components for the floor, front wing, and rear corner winglets. Their latest upgrade package features a reprofiled front wing and modified bodywork designed to increase overall downforce. While the improvements functioned as intended, Verstappen stated they failed to rectify the fundamental balance problems of his RB21 car.
I think they work, but it still doesn’t give me the balance I want to really attack a corner,
Verstappen said.
Those problems remain the same in terms of balance.
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
The persistent handling difficulties limit Verstappen’s ability to challenge McLaren, whose car has displayed superior performance and stability across various conditions throughout the season.
Red Bull Maintains Hope Despite Gap to McLaren
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko remains hopeful that Verstappen can continue fighting for a fifth consecutive world championship, despite the growing points advantage held by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. Prior to the Belgian GP weekend, Marko expressed confidence in the team’s strategy and underlying competitiveness.
There are still 12 races to go, and we will continue to fight for the drivers’ championship as long as it’s mathematically possible,
Marko said. Following the sprint race, he added,
Our goal remains the same: we want to win the world championship. We’ve already gained one point.
—Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing
However, Verstappen adopts a more cautious and realistic view of the situation, noting the disparities he feels behind the wheel compared to others.
But Helmut isn’t in the car!
Verstappen remarked.
I understand that you have to be positive, but I’m always very realistic about how I feel in the car. When I watch certain onboards from other cars, I know enough…
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
McLaren’s Tyre Advantage and Weather Conditions Widen the Gap
Verstappen also commented on McLaren’s expanding tyre performance edge, particularly apparent in challenging track conditions. Reflecting on the British Grand Prix, he observed that McLaren’s advantage becomes even more pronounced in mixed or wet weather.
This assessment raises concerns about Verstappen’s prospects during the Belgian GP weekend, where weather variability may further hamper Red Bull’s competitiveness against the top-performing McLarens.
Challenges Ahead for Verstappen and Red Bull
Verstappen’s admission signals a tense and uncertain battle in the championship as McLaren continues to set the pace. Red Bull’s struggle to close the gap with their late-season upgrades highlights ongoing technical difficulties that could impact their title defense.
With 12 races remaining in the season, Red Bull must strive to find more effective solutions if they are to challenge McLaren’s lead and preserve Verstappen’s chance at a fifth world championship. How the team responds to these challenges will shape the rest of the 2025 Formula 1 season, maintaining high stakes for both drivers and manufacturers.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, using the number 13 is permitted. Pastor Maldonado chose this number when the fixed system of numbers started in 2014. Although some cultures view it as unlucky, F1 lets drivers decide their numbers.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton’s experiences with ADHD and dyslexia have influenced his life both in racing and outside of it. His journey shows that success in Formula 1 can have different paths, highlighting the importance of acknowledging learning differences.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. F1 Driver Number Selection Rules
Picking a number: Each Formula 1 driver can select a permanent number between 2 and 99, except for 17, to use during their career.