Red Bull ‘ set for 2025 blow’ after recent FIA decision .
Red Bull Racing, a dominant force in Formula 1 over the past decade, is facing significant challenges as it approaches the 2025 season. Despite Max Verstappen securing his fourth consecutive drivers’ championship in 2024, the team has expressed concerns about its future competitiveness.
Pierre Wache, Red Bull’s Technical Director, conveyed apprehension regarding the team’s 2025 prospects. He emphasized the necessity for continuous improvement, particularly in areas like speed and performance in slow corners, to maintain their competitive edge. Wache acknowledged that their recent successes were partly due to competitors’ errors and late starts in the season, underscoring the need for Red Bull to remain vigilant and proactive.
The departure of key personnel has further complicated Red Bull’s situation. Adrian Newey, the team’s Chief Technical Officer and a pivotal figure in their engineering successes, has transitioned to Aston Martin. Additionally, Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley has moved to Sauber/Audi. These exits have raised concerns about potential impacts on Red Bull’s technical development and strategic operations.
Driver lineup changes add another layer of complexity. Sergio Pérez, who partnered with Verstappen for four years, will not race for Red Bull in 2025 due to inconsistent performances. His replacement, 22-year-old New Zealander Liam Lawson, steps into a high-pressure role alongside a dominant teammate. Lawson’s prior stint as a substitute for Daniel Ricciardo showcased his potential, but the upcoming season will test his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.
The FIA’s recent regulatory changes also pose challenges for Red Bull. Notably, the abolition of the point awarded for the fastest lap, a rule that had previously benefited teams capable of strategic tire changes and rapid late-race performances, could influence race strategies. This change may affect Red Bull’s approach, given their historical adeptness at securing fastest laps through strategic planning.
Furthermore, the introduction of stricter regulations on driver conduct, including language and gestures, means that drivers like Verstappen will need to exercise increased caution to avoid penalties that could impact their championship standings.
The competitive landscape in Formula 1 is intensifying. Teams such as McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes have made significant strides, closing the performance gap with Red Bull. The 2024 season was particularly competitive, with seven different drivers securing multiple race wins. This heightened competition underscores the challenges Red Bull faces in maintaining its leading position.
In response to these challenges, Red Bull is undergoing internal restructuring. The team is revamping its trackside setup for 2025, a move aimed at retaining key personnel like Verstappen’s race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, who will also assume the role of ‘Head of Racing.’ Team Principal Christian Horner views this evolution as a source of renewed enthusiasm and commitment within the team.
As the 2025 season approaches, Red Bull faces a confluence of internal and external challenges. The departure of key figures, regulatory changes, and intensified competition necessitate strategic adaptations. The team’s ability to navigate these obstacles will be crucial in determining whether it can maintain its position at the pinnacle of Formula 1.
