Mar.15 (GMM) Dr Helmut Marko is trying to stay upbeat about Red Bull’s situation as the 2025 season kicks off in Melbourne.
Max Verstappen took issue with his mentor’s claim that a second-row qualifying performance might still be realistic at the season opener, while Max’s father has been warning that a full season of struggle could result in a premature team exit.
“The Verstappens are rather pessimistic,” Marko told Sport1, “while I’m more of an optimist.
“For them, the glass is half empty at the moment – for me it’s half full.”
Ultimately, Marko proved his charge wrong – as Verstappen qualified P3 behind the dominant McLarens.
Verstappen, though, says the biggest problem in 2025 so far isn’t difficult car handling – as was the case last year. “The biggest problem is that we’re just too slow,” said the Dutchman.
“It’s not that the balance is bad, we just don’t have enough grip. It’s not particularly good, particularly bad, it’s just what I expected.
“Everyone has the possibility to develop and improve, of course,” Verstappen added. “But first you have to understand it. Or know where you can improve.
“I am not a specialist in aerodynamics and I can’t design suspension either. I only drive with what is given to me. I will give feedback on that of course, but I can’t tell them how to design a front wing.”
What is clear is that Red Bull has started 2025 on the back foot – evidenced by Sergio Perez’s replacement, Liam Lawson, not even making it through Q3.
“That (gap) should be a bit less,” Marko insists.
Former F1 driver Timo Glock told Sky Deutschland: “We already had a bit of a hint, but I wouldn’t have thought it would be that bad.”
There have been repetitive signs, however, that Verstappen at least is only just – in Marko’s estimation – “two to three tenths” behind McLaren.
“But Max can’t perform magic either,” he added. “If the technical gap is too big, then even the Max factor won’t help.”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2025 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas at the Circuit of the Americas - one of the world's finest racing circuits. This year's event features one of six Sprint races on the F1 schedule. Grand Prix Tours offers a fully appointed, personally tailored race experience for passionate enthusiasts at what has become a great American tradition and another anticipated sold-out event.
SHOW PACKAGES
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