May 17 (GMM) Max Verstappen’s chances of securing a fifth consecutive world championship are becoming “unrealistic”.
That’s the frank admission of Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko, who admitted the small step forward delivered by car updates at Imola were nonetheless “disappointing”.
As for Verstappen, he said after Friday practice: “The McLaren overtook me and drove away. That says it all.”
Marko said the Imola upgrade has at least cured the car’s understeer. “But other problems have arisen,” said the Austrian. “We have a fundamental problem.
“We lost four tenths to the McLarens. Around this circuit, that’s a lot. And in the race, the McLarens still seem to be in a class of their own again.
“The World Championship is becoming increasingly unrealistic.”
That’s very bad news for Red Bull, especially with Verstappen’s performance exit clauses looming for the summer break.
His father and co-manager Jos is unimpressed. “At the start of the season they shouted loudly that something would happen at Imola,” he told Racexpress.
“It’s absolutely important that it starts to go in the right direction a little now, because otherwise the gap will simply become too big. Then it won’t work out this year.”
Once teams begin to realise McLaren cannot be caught, their full focus will switch to the radical new regulations for 2026. Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur insists that moment is yet to arrive for the Italian team.
“It’s very important to stay competitive this season,” he insisted, “because it’s precisely when you’re fighting for something that you pay attention to the details.
“Some may think my perspective is wrong, but I can’t imagine how a group of 1000 people can maintain the same motivation if they’ve essentially given up on a season,” Vasseur added.
Amid the upgrades up and down pitlane, the biggest step may have been taken by Aston Martin – whose lead driver Fernando Alonso is yet to score even a single point in 2025.
“Aston Martin has a huge update here,” Williams boss James Vowles told El Mundo Deportivo newspaper. “I think it’s a new car, almost.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES