Verstappen Pessimistic about Red Bull Catching McLaren in Near Future

Max Verstappen has shared a realistic outlook on Red Bull Racing’s chances of closing the gap to McLaren, the team currently dominating Formula 1.

After finishing 40 seconds behind race winner Oscar Piastri at the Miami Grand Prix, the Dutchman admitted that the team’s latest upgrade for the RB25 is unlikely to make a major difference.

RB25 upgrade not enough to close the gap

“A little bit. But we have already had a few races with some updates, so this is again a little step forward. I don’t expect, of course, to suddenly close the gap to McLaren,”
said Verstappen, in a candid assessment of Red Bull’s development pace.

Tire management still a major weakness

The team’s biggest challenge continues to be tire management, especially during high degradation races — an area where McLaren has shown remarkable strength.

Making things tougher are the upcoming technical regulation changes involving flexible front wings, which are expected to take effect before the Spanish Grand Prix.

Tsunoda to receive upgrade, but expectations remain cautious

Yuki Tsunoda, Verstappen’s teammate, is set to receive the latest spec RB25 at the Emilia Romagna GP in Imola. However, Verstappen remains grounded about its potential impact.

He believes that while the changes may offer minor improvements, they are not enough to turn the tide in Red Bull’s battle with McLaren for supremacy in the current season.