Max Verstappen, the formidable force behind Red Bull Racing, has offered a rather grounded view of his prospects for the 2025 Formula 1 title. Speaking just before the Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen shared his thoughts on what the season has been like so far.
The Dutch driver, renowned for his dominant streak and four consecutive World Championships, seems to have hit a roadblock this year. The 2025 season witnessed him moving away from the top spot, a place he had owned for years. Red Bull’s RB21, the team’s latest innovation, has introduced unexpected challenges in terms of handling and speed.
Conversely, McLaren has risen like a phoenix, with Oscar Piastri bagging four victories and Lando Norris adding two more to the team’s tally. Verstappen managed to grab one, but it hasn’t quite bolstered his confidence in overcoming McLaren’s growing might. Despite being theoretically in contention for a fifth title, Verstappen revealed, ‘For me, it doesn’t really feel like a fight, to be honest.’
He isn’t dismissive of the races that lie ahead, but the excitement seems muted unless there’s an assurance of top-tier performance. Verstappen remarked, ‘I’m more excited if I know that we’re gonna be super quick. That’s the most exciting.’ Clearly, his enthusiasm peaks with predictability in performance. Yet, racing hasn’t always been as thrilling with some races showcasing glaring deficits in pace.
Verstappen’s fighting spirit hasn’t dwindled, he assures. However, he admitted, ‘That is also never disappearing, but that doesn’t mean I’m enjoying it or loving it. I like it.’ His approach is pragmatic; he commits to doing his best regardless of the circumstances, whether it means ending up fifth or securing a win. This straightforward mindset seems to conserve his energy, allowing for a balanced life outside the racing circuit.
Reflecting on the practicality required in racing, Verstappen articulated, ‘It’s not like trying to grab the championship…you can try and grab it, but if you don’t have the car, there’s nothing to grab.’ His words hint at a deeper understanding that skill alone doesn’t win championships—machinery plays a crucial role as well. While tides can change, Verstappen remains unfazed, choosing not to stress over issues beyond his control.
Max Verstappen’s outlook on the 2025 F1 season is a blend of realism and perseverance. While the excitement may have dulled in some respects, his determination to make the best of each race persists. His candid take on the car’s performance reflects a professional who understands the nuances of competition, focusing on what he can control and letting go of the rest.
