Helmut Marko, Red Bull`s advisor, has expressed significant concern regarding Max Verstappen`s future with the team, citing their `very alarming` performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Verstappen managed to finish sixth in the race, securing valuable points despite facing pit stop problems and car handling issues throughout the event.
While Verstappen is still close to the top of the championship standings, Red Bull`s car has shown considerable problems and lags behind McLaren`s speed this season.
Marko, speaking to Sky Germany, emphasized the urgent need for improvements to provide Verstappen with a car capable of winning. He stated that the team must build a solid foundation with their car to enable Verstappen to compete for the world championship.
Verstappen`s contract with Red Bull extends until the end of 2028. However, Marko previously mentioned that top drivers` contracts often include performance-based clauses.
Despite Verstappen`s victory in Suzuka, which raised hopes for Red Bull, the Bahrain race highlighted the difficult start to the season with their new car.
The pit stop issues in Bahrain, attributed to an electrical failure, hindered Verstappen`s race. He also struggled with pace on hard tyres and at one point was near the back of the field.
Yuki Tsunoda, Verstappen`s teammate, finished shortly behind and experienced similar handling problems, indicating broader issues with the car.
Horner: Bahrain GP was a Difficult Weekend
Christian Horner, Red Bull`s team principal, acknowledged the Bahrain Grand Prix as a challenging weekend for the team. He pointed out issues from the start of the race, including poor starts and problematic pit stops, as well as high tyre temperatures.
Horner stressed the importance of scoring points despite the difficulties, recognizing that the championship is a long race and improvements are urgently needed.
Verstappen: Tyre Management Issues Indicate Widespread Weakness
Verstappen himself highlighted poor tyre management as a key issue, indicating that the car`s balance is not optimal, which becomes particularly evident on demanding tracks. He doesn`t expect immediate improvements for the upcoming race in Saudi Arabia, despite his past dominance there.
He admitted that while tyre degradation might be slightly less in Jeddah, fundamental weaknesses in tyre management will persist and put them at a disadvantage compared to competitors.
