The Formula 1 world is abuzz with speculation. Red Bull, once the dominant force on the grid, is now struggling to maintain its supremacy, and their star driver Max Verstappen’s future has become a hot topic. Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes that if Red Bull fails to improve its performance in the next few races, Verstappen could leave the team and potentially move to Mercedes.
Despite their dominance in recent years, Red Bull is currently underperforming. After three races, including the sprint in China, the team has only managed to score 36 points, placing them fourth in the Constructors’ Championship.
The RB21 car has been a challenge for its drivers, leading to Liam Lawson losing his seat just two races into the season. Verstappen has also voiced his concerns about the car’s competitiveness, stating, “We are the fourth-fastest team behind McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes.”
One of the main issues plaguing Red Bull this season is tire management. Like many other teams, they have struggled to get their tires into the optimal working window. This was evident at the Chinese Grand Prix, where Verstappen struggled on medium compound tires but performed significantly better once he switched to hards. However, for a driver aiming for a fifth world title, such inconsistencies are unacceptable.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher has made bold claims about Verstappen’s future. Speaking to Formel1.de’s YouTube channel, he stated, “I think Max will leave the team. If nothing changes in the next two, three, or four races, that decision will be made.”
McLaren CEO Zak Brown also weighed in on the situation. Speaking to The Telegraph, he said, “I think he will leave at the end of the season. He will most likely go to Mercedes. If I had to bet, I’d say Mercedes. They’ve won seven or eight championships in the last decade.”
The next few races will be crucial for Red Bull. If the team fails to turn things around, one of the biggest stars in Formula 1 may be on the move, reshaping the future of the sport.