What are the odds that Max Verstappen will still clinch the driver’s title this year? Despite a disappointing weekend for McLaren in Canada, the Dutchman is still in the running for his fifth title. However, according to Helmut Marko, the next two Grands Prix will be crucial for Red Bull. “A decision will be made after Silverstone or at the latest Spa to fully focus on the new car,” reveals the Austrian.
Verstappen currently trails championship leader Oscar Piastri by 43 World Championship points. The gap to second-place Lando Norris is even smaller, especially after the Brit’s retirement in Canada: 21 points. This keeps the Dutchman firmly in the title race this year. However, according to advisor Helmut Marko, something needs to happen at Red Bull in the next two races. Otherwise, Verstappen’s title chances could be over.
The RB21 continues to struggle with bumps, understeer, and has a small operating window. Red Bull hopes to address these issues with an update in Austria and thus bridge the gap to the dominant MCL39. “We have an update for Austria, which will be refined in Silverstone,” Marko reveals to Kleine Zeitung. “But if this doesn’t work, it will be very difficult in the championship. As if it’s not difficult enough at the moment. At some point, we have to say: ‘This is it in terms of development, we can’t go any further’.”
Focus on 2026?
“That has to do with how long it takes to develop a part and with the budget cap,” Marko continues. “The question is where you want to allocate your resources. After Silverstone, or at the latest Spa, a decision will be made to fully focus on the new car.” A new regulation will come into effect in 2026. As a result, Red Bull, like the other teams, will be on the grid with a completely new vehicle. In addition, the racing team is also developing its first own engine for the next season, in collaboration with Ford.
