Max Verstappen’s Red Bull dominance has sparked new tensions inside Red Bull Racing as revelations from former driver Juan Pablo Montoya surface, highlighting the intense pressure faced by Sergio Perez and other teammates. The discussion around Verstappen’s role and the internal hierarchy has reignited as the Formula 1 season progresses, drawing sharp attention to the balance of power within the team.
Mounting Pressure within Red Bull Racing
The spotlight has turned firmly onto Red Bull Racing after Juan Pablo Montoya addressed the struggles Sergio Perez faces while competing alongside Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion. Montoya’s remarks followed Perez’s own frank comments on the Cracks Podcast, where the Mexican driver reflected on the relentless expectations and scrutiny from being part of a team dominated by one star driver. Perez, referencing the unique challenges at Red Bull, stated,
“Being in Red Bull has always been a challenge,”
Perez, Driver.
In the high-stakes environment of Formula 1, Perez described an atmosphere where every action is under magnified observation, and the risk of falling out of favor is constant. He further explained the nature of the team dynamic, saying,
“Whether you’re faster than Max or slower, it’s a problem.”
Perez, Driver.
These candid admissions reflect the psychological intensity of racing in a team where one leader’s supremacy is rarely questioned, and the emotional strain for fellow drivers is significant.
Montoya’s Observations on Team Hierarchy and Favoritism
Montoya, sharing his views with the Spanish publication AS, reinforced the sentiments expressed by Perez and shone a harsh light on the workings within Red Bull Racing. He said,
“What Perez said is terrible. If you manage to outpace Max, they will alter everything to ensure Max is faster. And if you’re slower, you’re blamed for misjudging the situation.”
Montoya, Former F1 Driver.
Montoya’s insight suggests that Red Bull’s commitment to Verstappen as their number one driver might be affecting the growth and confidence of others within the camp. This endorsement of Verstappen’s primacy raises crucial questions about team strategy, driver morale, and the handling of talented drivers like Perez, and highlights concerns of bias and internal politics.
Looking Ahead: New Talent Faces an Uphill Battle
With the 2026 season on the horizon, anticipation builds around Isack Hadjar, the emerging talent set to become Verstappen’s new teammate at Red Bull Racing. Montoya’s comments suggest that competing with Verstappen is not simply a test of speed, but also a challenge of navigating team politics and living without the privileges extended to the leading driver. As Montoya stated,
“The reality of not being the number one and losing the privileges Verstappen enjoys, where he can do whatever he wants, is complicated,”
Montoya, Former F1 Driver.
This reality presents Hadjar with a formidable challenge, reminding fans and aspiring drivers alike that status within a Formula 1 team can be just as important as talent on the track.
Verstappen’s Future and the Team’s Dilemma
Speculation about Verstappen’s future continues to grow, with Montoya raising the idea that leaving Red Bull might not be as appealing as it appears. For Verstappen, departing would mean giving up the authority, freedom, and established leadership he enjoys—a risk that few top drivers are eager to take. The thought of joining a new team, potentially as just another competitor rather than the clear leader, gives significant pause and adds drama to the ongoing story within Red Bull.
A Season of Uncertainty and Intrigue
As Formula 1’s current season pushes ahead, intrigue surrounds the evolving roles within Red Bull Racing. Will Sergio Perez manage to withstand the weight of Verstappen’s dominance and carve out his place, or will the psychological toll prove overwhelming? For Isack Hadjar, the future holds both promise and immense difficulty as he prepares for the challenge of joining a team so clearly shaped by Verstappen’s shadow. With the Red Bull camp under constant scrutiny, the Formula 1 world watches closely, uncertain how this battle for supremacy will unfold.
