Max Verstappen's recent performance has left Formula 1 fans and pundits alike scratching their heads. The Dutch driver, who has been a dominant force in the championship, hasn't clinched a victory in his last three races. Most recently, he finished fifth at the Hungarian Grand Prix, an event marred by a collision-induced strategy issue that disrupted his charge.
Despite the setback, Verstappen maintains a substantial 76-point lead in the championship standings. However, this lead seems to be a fragile comfort given the complexities he's faced on the track. Red Bull made significant updates to his RB20 in Hungary, introducing new upper bodywork and a revised front wing. Nevertheless, these upgrades weren't enough to propel Verstappen to the top of the podium.
"We didn't have the pace to fight McLaren today but then I think we could still have had a P3," Verstappen remarked, underlining the disconnect between potential and performance. Indeed, the race saw Verstappen lose track position to key competitors like Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc during crucial pit stops, exacerbating his frustrations.
Verstappen didn't hold back in his post-race reflections, stating, "No mate, don't give me that s--- now. You guys gave me this s--- strategy, OK? I'm trying to rescue what's left. F---." His blunt critique highlights the tension between driver and team and underscores the challenges of in-race decision-making under pressure.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner offered some context, indicating that the strategic woes weren't solely on Verstappen. "GP at that point wasn't referring to Max; he was referring to others on the radio complaining about penalties," Horner explained. Still, Horner acknowledged that further improvements are essential. "I think we've got more performance to bring. We need to expand that operating window for the car, so when the car is in the right window it qualifies on pole by four tenths like it did in Austria."
Verstappen himself admitted that his performance isn't aligning with his efforts. "I feel like I probably push harder than I did last year, but it's just not coming anymore to have these great lap times. So I guess it just means that we are a bit slower. So we have work to do. Simple as that," he said, calling for a more unified and efficient approach within the team.
The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is anticipated to suit Red Bull better, potentially providing a much-needed boost for Verstappen and his team. Yet, this remains speculative as long as the underlying issues persist. "It's quite impressive how we let ourselves get undercut. It's completely f---ed my race," Verstappen admitted candidly post-race, indicating that strategy flaws are a critical area where the team needs to improve.
In echoing his frustration, Verstappen noted, "I already said yesterday maybe some people are not on the same wavelength." The upgrades to Verstappen's car, though significant, haven't yet delivered the requisite results. "For sure the upgrades work, but we're still not first, right? So we need more. It's as simple as that," he pointed out.
While some may criticize Verstappen's forthrightness, he remains unapologetic about his outspoken nature. "I don't think we need to apologize; I just think we need to do a better job. I don't know why people think that you cannot be vocal on the radio. I mean, this is a sport," he stated. Verstappen, known for his no-nonsense approach, added, "If some people don't like that, then they can stay home."
As the season progresses, Red Bull and Verstappen must address these underlying issues to maintain their championship momentum. With Spa-Francorchamps on the horizon, the team will be keen to leverage its strengths while fine-tuning strategies and car performance to reclaim the top step of the podium. The coming races will be critical in determining whether Verstappen can transform his sheer drive and determination into victories once more.