Although Max Verstappen is the current reigning FIA Formula 1 World Drivers’ Champion, things aren’t going well in the 2025 season. Verstappen is currently third in the overall standings behind McLaren’s drivers, who have proven fierce competitors so far.
The reigning F1 champion is 5 points behind Piastri and but he has won a race (Japan) this season. However, compared to the previous season, things aren’t ideal. Even Red Bull’s head of development programmer and advisor Helmut Marko expressed his concerns about Verstappen’s future in the team due to his recent underperformance in the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Marko’s statements raise concerns
In an interview for Sky Germany, Marko stated that the team has great concerns. He also stressed the importance of making quick improvements to Red Bull’s cars to give Verstappen a chance to compete. He added that they have to create a foundation with a reliable car to help win the world championship.
While this kind of statement didn’t surprise anyone, it did confirm the whispers surrounding the team. Verstappen was plagued by poor pit stops, extreme tyre wear, and balance issues during the Sunday race in Bahrain. The rough track and hot weather shed a light on the car’s issues, as Verstappen complained about balance problems only recently.
Could Max really leave Red Bull after this season?
Verstappen has a long-term deal with Red Bull expiring in 2028. However, Marko stated that the contract has a performance clause, like all top drivers’ contracts do. If the team doesn’t perform well, Verstappen can use this clause to leave Red Bull.
Still, the exact details of the clause aren’t publicly known, and some say that the team is trying its luck with “panicked” statements and moves since we’re only four races into the season. But, similarly to the ever-competing crypto casinos, Formula 1 is extremely fast-paced, and if you’re not making adjustments, you can easily find yourself at the bottom.
Verstappen hasn’t said anything about leaving
When talking about his plans earlier this year, Verstappen stated that he was feeling relaxed about the future. Although he hasn’t said anything about being unsatisfied or wanting to leave, there are some clear signs of tension within the team.
After last Sunday’s race, Helmut Marko and Raymond Vermeulen were seen confronting each other because of the recent results. Vermeulen is Verstappen’s manager, and many speculate that Marko’s recent statements come as a result of their confrontation. At the same time, Verstappen is an elite driver who wants to compete and has many options at his disposal.
The future of Red Bull and its plans for 2026 look complicated. Apart from unexpected results, Formula 1 will introduce new engine and chassis rules as part of the most significant regulation changes in F1’s history. All teams are worried about what to expect, and Red Bull isn’t in the best situation possible.
