How Will Max Verstappen Overcome Red Bull’s Grip Issues After a Disappointing Qualifying?

Max Verstappen’s qualifying session at the Austrian Grand Prix was marred by persistent grip issues, leaving the five-time world champion frustrated and struggling to find pace.

Despite Red Bull’s latest upgrades, including a revised floor intended to improve balance, Verstappen described the RB21 as “completely undriveable” due to understeer and lack of grip in all corner types.

This fundamental handling problem has plagued the team throughout the season, limiting Verstappen’s ability to challenge McLaren’s front runners effectively.

Technical Challenges Behind the Grip Deficit

The root of Red Bull’s grip issues lies in the car’s balance and tyre management, particularly on technical circuits like the Red Bull Ring where low-to-medium speed corners demand precise rear tyre control.

While incremental upgrades have marginally improved the car’s through-corner behavior, they have not closed the gap to McLaren’s superior aerodynamic package and suspension setup.

Verstappen’s feedback highlights excessive understeer on both short and long runs, forcing the team to reconsider suspension geometry and aero balance to regain competitiveness.

Did you know?
Max Verstappen has won five times at the Red Bull Ring since 2018, making it one of his most successful circuits despite the current struggles with car balance and grip.

Impact of Race Engineer Absence and Team Dynamics

Adding complexity to Verstappen’s weekend is the absence of his regular race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, for personal reasons. Simon Rennie, Red Bull’s simulator chief, stepped in to provide support, and Verstappen acknowledged the positive influence despite the disruption.

However, losing the established driver-engineer rapport may have contributed to slower problem diagnosis and adaptation during qualifying, compounding the car’s handling woes.

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Strategic Importance of Upcoming Upgrades and Races

Verstappen and Red Bull view the Austrian and upcoming British Grands Prix as pivotal moments in their 2025 campaign. The team has indicated that the current floor revision may be their final major upgrade before shifting focus to the 2026 car development.

With Verstappen sitting third in the drivers’ standings and trailing McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by a significant margin, the pressure to extract maximum performance from the existing package is immense. The ability to fine-tune setup and optimize tyre usage in race conditions will be critical to mitigating qualifying setbacks.

Psychological and Championship Implications for Verstappen

The grip issues and resulting seventh-place qualifying position pose a psychological challenge for Verstappen, who has been known for his relentless competitiveness.

The frustration expressed over the car’s drivability and the FIA’s recent regulatory tweaks around track etiquette add to the pressure.

Verstappen’s cautious approach in media interactions, avoiding controversy to prevent penalty points, reflects a driver balancing aggression with strategic discipline as he fights to stay in title contention.