Whilst the RB21 was still a step behind the MCL39<\/a>, Red Bull were optimistic the Spanish GP technical directive could play into their hands.<\/p>\n Of course, the only consequence of the new flexi-wing regulations was that McLaren consolidated their supremacy.<\/p>\n This leaves Red Bull with the task of damage limitation for the coming months, whilst also aiming for a recovery in 2026.<\/p>\n On paper, both world titles are now beyond Red Bull’s grasp this year. This would be reason, in normal circumstances, to essentially write-off what remains of the season.<\/p>\n Unfortunately for the Milton Keynes outfit, they are not in a position to do this.<\/p>\n Their largely self-inflicted driver dilemma means they must work hard to reverse Tsunoda’s fortunes after the summer break.<\/p>\n The team’s decision to give Tsunoda<\/a> a new floor in Spa (which was previously reserved as a spare for Verstappen) was the first sign of their shift to offer more support to their second driver.<\/p>\n More broadly, Verstappen’s P9 result in Hungary (finishing behind Liam Lawson) showcased how far Red Bull have fallen.<\/p>\n Whilst the Hungaroring’s characteristics did not suit the RB21, their performance was still alarming.<\/p>\n Without any upgrades scheduled for the remainder of 2025, delivering better results will be an immense challenge.<\/p>\n To some extent, Red Bull’s pace will be somewhat circuit-specific, meaning on some weekends they will have to settle for relatively uninspiring results.<\/p>\n Still, in what has been a disappointing season, it will be important to end on a high note.<\/p>\n Not only for the sake of the team, but also for Verstappen’s future<\/a>.<\/p>\n Max Verstappen was in negotiations with Mercedes earlier this year.<\/p>\n These talks were undoubtedly catalysed by Red Bull’s poor 2025 campaign<\/a>, but were also a consequence of the expectations for the 2026 regulations.<\/p>\n Generally speaking, Red Bull are seen as a team that will struggle next year – due to the demands of making their own power unit.<\/p>\n Mercedes, meanwhile, have all the ingredients to fight at the very front.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/motorsports\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2025\/08\/SI202508030464_hires_jpeg_24bit_rgb-1024x683.jpg\")
Red Bull are fighting uphill battles on two fronts<\/h2>\n
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Marko: Verstappen could “reconsider” future without strong package<\/h4>\n