Red Bull convened a high-level meeting following a disappointing performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen finished in sixth place, leaving the world champion visibly frustrated. The result raised concerns about the team’s future and highlighted deeper issues within the car’s performance. With the stakes higher than ever, Red Bull’s leadership is under pressure to find solutions to avoid further setbacks.
Red Bull Acknowledges Car Performance Issues
Team principal Christian Horner admitted that the Bahrain race exposed critical flaws in the car’s performance. “There are obvious pitfalls we need to address quickly,” Horner remarked after the race. While some weaknesses were concealed by setup adjustments during the Suzuka race, Bahrain clearly revealed the long-term challenges Red Bull needs to overcome. Horner, alongside technical director Pierre Waché, advisor Helmut Marko, and chief engineer Paul Monaghan, participated in urgent crisis talks to examine the technical challenges facing the team.
Helmut Marko expressed further concern, describing the performance as “very alarming” and confirming to German TV that the team’s level of concern is high. Verstappen himself was blunt in his assessment, stating, “Everything went wrong that could go wrong.” This has fueled growing speculation about his long-term future with the team. Marko had previously mentioned that Verstappen’s contract includes a performance-based exit clause, and tensions seem to be building within the team. Reports indicate that Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, confronted Marko angrily after the Bahrain race.
Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton Show Improvement
While Red Bull grapples with internal issues, Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton appear to be making significant strides. Hamilton finished fifth in the Bahrain race, marking his best result with Ferrari since joining the team this season. Teammate Charles Leclerc secured fourth place, and both drivers are beginning to feel more confident in the car’s competitiveness.
Hamilton spoke positively about his progress with Ferrari, saying, “I think I’ve figured out how the car likes to drive. I learned more this weekend than in all the others so far.” He also believes that a better qualifying performance will help unlock the car’s full potential, signaling that the team is starting to find its groove.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur shared a similar perspective, highlighting the need for patience as Hamilton adapts to his new team. “You don’t replace 12 years of collaboration in two weeks,” Vasseur said. “We’ll adapt the car to Lewis, but he also needs to adapt to the car. That mindset is key.” Despite the challenges, Vasseur is optimistic about the partnership and the future potential of the team.
Vasseur Stresses Patience Amid High Expectations
Vasseur, known for his calm and methodical leadership style, emphasized the importance of staying patient and level-headed amidst the team’s progress. He acknowledged the high expectations surrounding Ferrari but stressed the need for gradual improvements. “We need to stay calm and improve by hundredths of a second,” Vasseur explained. “We’ve managed to turn things around before, and I’m convinced we can do it again.”
As McLaren’s Oscar Piastri dominated the Bahrain race and Ferrari builds momentum, Red Bull now faces its biggest test of the season—not only on track but also within the team. The coming races will be critical in determining whether Verstappen’s frustrations will continue to grow or if Red Bull can regain control of the championship fight.
With Verstappen’s confidence shaken and Red Bull’s internal struggles coming to light, the team faces a crucial period. The upcoming races will determine whether Red Bull can regain its dominance or if their competitors, including Ferrari and McLaren, will continue to close the gap. The pressure is mounting for the team to address the technical challenges and internal tensions before it’s too late. How they respond in the next few races will be pivotal in shaping the outcome of the championship season.