Red Bull‘s recent challenges with Max Verstappen‘s car during the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix ignited frustration among Formula 1 fans, as the four-time world champion failed to deliver a strong result. Despite extensive efforts over three days, Verstappen and his teammate Yuki Tsunoda struggled with balance issues in the RB21, resulting in a lackluster performance and a ninth-place finish after starting eighth. This marked one of the toughest weekends of the season for Verstappen, who managed to secure only two points for the team.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko attributed the difficulties to tire temperatures not reaching their optimal range during the race weekend and assured that such problems would not reoccur. However, this explanation did little to satisfy the fanbase, who expressed their disappointment and skepticism openly on social media platforms like X.
Fan Reactions Highlight Growing Frustration Over Red Bull’s Performance
The fans’ responses to Helmut Marko‘s comments revealed widespread doubt about Red Bull’s ability to promptly fix the problems. Some fans voiced harsh opinions about the team and its leadership, reflecting their unease over Verstappen’s current form and the team’s reliability. A selection of reactions included:
“I think we are all saying the same thing. We will believe it when we see it,” said a fan.
“Helmut should just be thanking God that Max didn’t drop under George and breach the exit clause because this team is a disaster,” wrote a fan.
“Please, make him shut up. Everytime he speaks it’s even worse,” claimed another.
“A bit late innit? Would have been helpful if they found out like 70 laps ago or something,” suggested another.
Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda also found himself outside the points, contributing to a disappointing weekend for the Red Bull team overall, which managed only two points from Budapest.
Team Principal Offers Perspective Amid Verstappen’s Struggles
Laurent Mekies, Red Bull’s team principal and CEO, acknowledged the team’s difficulties but provided a more optimistic outlook compared to Verstappen’s bleak predictions. Mekies emphasized that this particular race did not reflect the car’s true potential and highlighted better performances earlier in the season as proof of the team’s capabilities.
Addressing the media, Mekies said the team recognized their weaknesses on certain tracks like Budapest but seemed encouraged by Verstappen’s efforts and previous strong performances, such as his impressive sprint race win in Spa.
“It was a tough weekend. I don’t think what you see this weekend represents where the car is at. We accept the fact that we are probably not very strong on tracks like here, but what we have seen today was outstanding.
“So, if you look, no question McLaren are faster, but look at Spa, Max was able to fight certainly on Saturday and surprise everyone in the sprint. So, let’s see. The season is still very long. We will learn and if we are able to extract a bit more of the car, thanks to weekends like today, then hopefully we can put up a better fight.”
Implications for Red Bull and Verstappen’s Season Ahead
Max Verstappen’s inability to win a main race since Imola combined with ongoing Red Bull struggles has raised concerns about their championship prospects moving forward. Verstappen’s strong sprint race win in Spa remains a bright spot, but the team must resolve its performance issues swiftly to maintain competitiveness.
If Red Bull successfully addresses the tire temperature and balance problems Helmut Marko mentioned, they could yet regain form during the remaining races of the season. However, the pressure is mounting for Verstappen and the team to deliver consistent results as fans grow increasingly anxious about their title defense hopes.
