Fans of Formula 1 know that Red Bull Racing is a team full of talent and innovation. However, the start of the 2025 season has been more challenging than expected for the Milton Keynes-based team. The key question now is, what exactly is holding Red Bull back this year?
Understanding Red Bull's Technical Struggles
Red Bull's motorsport advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko, recently shed light on the technical issues that have affected their performance in 2025. The main problem appears to be with the overall balance of their car, the RB21, which has been difficult to manage. Marko explained that the car has a tendency to 'jump over curbs' and experiences problems with understeering (where the car turns less than intended) and oversteering (where the car turns too much). These issues are mainly related to how the rear of the car behaves on different tracks.
Despite certain tracks like Jeddah, Suzuka, Imola, and Montreal providing better conditions for the car, the narrow window for optimal performance means the team struggles in many other circuits. Marko emphasized that these problems have been persistent, dating back to the previous seasons, but they have become more critical with the current model and setup.
Red Bull's technical team has been working on updates to improve the RB21. Marko stated that new parts are scheduled to be introduced during the Austrian Grand Prix, and these will be refined further for the Silverstone race. However, if these updates do not work as planned, it could spell trouble in the ongoing fight for the world championship, especially against rivals like McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari.
How These Issues Impact Red Bull's Championship Hopes
This season's performance has not met the high standards set by Red Bull in previous years. After a strong 2024, where they achieved a near-perfect season, the team is now trailing behind McLaren, which has been remarkably competitive and has already secured four wins in the first five races of 2025. Red Bull has only managed to win twice, with Max Verstappen alone contributing 155 of the team's 162 points.
The technical difficulties are also causing concern about Verstappen's future with the team. Marko expressed that if the team cannot improve, it could affect Verstappen's long-term commitment. Verstappen's contract runs until 2028, but with the performance dip, there are growing fears about him considering options elsewhere, especially if the team’s car continues to struggle. The team’s ability to provide him with a competitive and reliable car remains essential for their success.
Marko has pointed out that the issues are complex and rooted in the car’s fundamental design. The team is racing against a tight deadline to fix these problems before they lose their edge in the championship race. The upcoming updates are seen as critical to closing the gap with McLaren and retaking their position at the top of the grid.
In conclusion, Red Bull's 2025 season is at a crossroads. While they still have the talent and resources to bounce back, technical challenges have made this year more unpredictable and tough. The story of Red Bull this season is a reminder that even the strongest teams face hurdles, and how they overcome them will define their legacy in Formula 1 history.
