Verstappen Faces Challenges as Title Race Narrows
Silverstone, UK – Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing demonstrated exceptional skill despite grappling with performance issues during the 2025 British Grand Prix. So far this season, the four-time champion has secured 165 of Red Bull’s 172 total championship points over 12 races.
Ahead of the race, Verstappen acknowledged difficulties with the car’s balance, exacerbated by windy conditions at Silverstone. "It was difficult to find much balance in the car," he noted. "The wind affects things quite a lot, but that is not an excuse; you have to deal with it."
Former champion Jenson Button commented on Verstappen’s continued prowess. “What he’s doing with that car is just unbelievable. When you put so many drivers in the same car and they are nowhere near him, it proves what a talent he is," he stated, emphasizing that a challenging car setup further highlights Verstappen’s abilities.
The Red Bull team has faced significant competition this season, and Button suggested that the title race is increasingly competitive. “If Max has one bad race, like he did in Austria, that’s a lot of points for him to make up,” he explained, indicating that it’s currently a two-horse race with McLaren leading.
Rumors regarding a potential move by Verstappen to Mercedes have escalated, with team principal Toto Wolff confirming ongoing discussions. However, he cautioned that the probability of a contract for 2026 remains low. Button reflected on Verstappen’s dilemma: "It’s a tricky decision for him with new regulations coming next year. Whatever he chooses, it promises to be an exciting season in 2026."
