The 2025 Formula 1 season took a dramatic turn at the Hungarian Grand Prix as Max Verstappen delivered a blunt assessment of Red Bull’s current form, suggesting the team may not see another win this year. His remarks have stirred discussion within the paddock and among fans, with former Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins calling them "pretty demotivating" for the team.

Red Bull’s Hungarian Woes: A Weekend to Forget

Red Bull’s struggles in Budapest were evident throughout the weekend. Both Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda battled with poor grip, resulting in Verstappen qualifying only eighth—his worst performance of the 2025 season. He narrowly escaped Q1 and Q2, ultimately missing out on pole position by 0.356 seconds to Charles Leclerc.

• Verstappen qualified: 8th, 0.356s off pace
• Finished: 9th place, dropping valuable points
• Drivers' Championship: Still 3rd, but gap to George Russell shrinks to 15 points

Verstappen’s Bleak Outlook: "Nothing I Can Do About It"

After qualifying, Verstappen spoke candidly to Dutch media, stating, "No, not the way things are going right now. That's just the way it is. It's clear. There's nothing I can do about it. I could get angry, but that won't make the car any faster." His comments suggested a lack of optimism not only for Hungary but for the remainder of the season, casting doubt on Red Bull’s ability to bounce back.

Bernie Collins: "Pretty Demotivating for the Team"

Bernie Collins, a respected voice in F1 strategy, weighed in on Sky F1, noting that such public pessimism can hit the team hard. "I don't think any driver says we're not going to win anything this year as a motivator to the team. That's pretty demotivating if I were an engineer," she explained. However, Collins also acknowledged Verstappen’s intent: "He’s using it as a powerful way of communicating: 'I am really not happy, and something needs to change.' Hopefully, this drives the engineering force behind him to deliver a more competitive car next year."

What’s Next for Red Bull and Verstappen?

Despite the setback, Verstappen confirmed he will remain with Red Bull for the 2026 season, signaling his long-term commitment. The team, now under pressure to address ongoing car performance issues, must regroup quickly as the championship fight tightens. 

Key Takeaways

• Max Verstappen’s comments reflect deep frustration with Red Bull’s current car.
• Public criticism can impact team morale, but may also spur urgent improvements.
• The 2025 championship battle remains wide open, with Verstappen still in striking distance.

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