Helmut Marko reveals the true purpose of Red Bull’s emergency meeting
Last Thursday, a meeting was held at Red Bull to respond to Max Verstappen's criticism of the RB21's performance. After a disappointing start to the season, it was an opportunity for the driver and the team to discuss the improvements needed for the car.
Helmut Marko revealed that last Thursday’s meeting was primarily aimed at « calmly responding » to Max Verstappen’s criticisms and wishes regarding the RB21, a car that appears to suffer from numerous issues at the start of the season. Team principal Christian Horner clarified that the summit provided an opportunity for Verstappen to sit down with the team’s engineers and establish a plan of action to improve the car’s performance.
According to Marko, the objective of the meeting was clear: « This meeting is mainly about Max sitting down with the technicians and going through the next steps, » he told OE24. Despite Verstappen’s strong form, Red Bull’s performances have fallen short of expectations.
After finishing second in Australia, Verstappen had to settle for fourth place in China, while McLaren claimed a second consecutive win with Oscar Piastri. A blow for Red Bull, and an alarming sign for what lies ahead.
Verstappen facing uncertainty
Max Verstappen wasted no time voicing his concerns about the RB21. While he has been hit with disappointing performances at the start of the season, he remains determined to fight. After his underwhelming showing in Shanghai, he explained that the RB21 still suffers from persistent problems: « The RB21 has retained its struggle with kerbs and bumps, which turned out to be a major weakness last season, » he told the media.
It’s not the first time Red Bull has faced technical difficulties after a dominant spell, but the uncertainty surrounding the car suggests that the team may struggle to recapture its 2023 form. The Dutch driver, however, remains composed in interviews, stating: « I’m actually very relaxed, I’m in a very positive mindset, I’m enjoying life. »
The question of Verstappen’s future
With rumors circulating for several months, Verstappen‘s future at Red Bull is more uncertain than ever. Although his contract officially runs until the end of 2028, it includes a « performance clause » that could allow the world champion to leave the team early if the results fail to meet his expectations.
Speculation has also emerged about a potential move to Aston Martin or Mercedes, with respected F1 journalists fueling the rumors. But Verstappen was quick to respond that his future with Red Bull was not in danger. However, his statements have not fully dispelled the uncertainty.
Red Bull’s strategic decision
In another major move, Red Bull announced that Yuki Tsunoda will become Verstappen‘s teammate at the Japanese Grand Prix, following a tough start to the season for Liam Lawson. Christian Horner justified the decision on sporting grounds, explaining that Tsunoda’s experience would be valuable in helping to develop the RB21: « We recognize there’s a lot of work to do with the RB21, and Yuki’s experience will prove very beneficial in helping to improve the current car. »
It seems that Red Bull hopes this strategic shift will help stabilize the car’s performance and bring them back into the title fight for 2025.
