Addressing Challenges Ahead for the Racing Team

The racing team is gearing up for a crucial meeting next week, following a disappointing start to the 2025 season. Despite four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen holding a strong second position in the drivers’ standings, the team has been grappling with issues related to the RB21. The newcomer, Liam Lawson, has particularly faced challenges in adapting to the latest model.

Struggles of the Newcomer

After retiring from the rain-soaked Australian Grand Prix, Lawson had hoped for a turnaround in China. However, his struggles persisted. He qualified in P20 for both the sprint race and Grand Prix, failing to earn any points so far this season.

With only two Grand Prix weekends under his belt, whispers of potential replacement have already surfaced, with Yuki Tsunoda being touted as a possible contender as early as the Japanese Grand Prix.

Marko’s Assurance and Horner’s Optimism

Speaking to Sky DE, Helmut Marko confirmed the team meeting but assured that they are not “throwing in the towel.” He expressed, “This week there is a meeting in Milton Keynes to discuss when and how we can close the gap.” Until then, he emphasized, it’s about scoring as many points as possible.

Team principal Christian Horner also addressed the team’s struggles at the Shanghai International Circuit, stating, “It’s race 2. You can’t be that defeatist. I mean we’re 8 points behind in the drivers’ championship after two races, and there’s everything to play for, and if nothing else, last year teaches you: you can start as strong as you like, it’s how you finish.” He further added, “We’ve got great strength and depth in our team. Everybody in the company knows we’ve got a bit of pace to find and you know, we’ve got the tools, we’ve got the people in order to do that. It’s just unpicking it.”