Red Bull Racing has announced that 18-year-old Isack Hadjar will replace Yuki Tsunoda in the 2026 F1 season, with Arvid Lindblad moving to VCARB. Hadjar's promotion is seen as a smart move given his recent performance and timing, while Lindblad's experience and age make him a suitable choice for development. Tsunoda remains in the Red Bull ecosystem as a test driver, and the team aims for a more stable and promising driver lineup for the future.
Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing are favored to win the US Grand Prix, but high temperatures and new tire compounds could influence race strategies, making the outcome uncertain.
Red Bull Racing's underperformance at the Hungarian GP was attributed to tyre and aerodynamic issues, with Max Verstappen finishing ninth due to strategic errors and tyre management problems, despite initial expectations of a better result.
Christian Horner, a prominent figure in Formula One and former team principal of Red Bull Racing, was unexpectedly dismissed after over 20 years, marking a significant turning point in his career and the team's history, amid internal tensions and recent performance issues.
Bernie Ecclestone criticized Christian Horner for his handling of a sexting scandal that led to his firing from Red Bull Racing, describing him as an immature 'idiot' who overstepped boundaries and lacked proper management, amid internal power struggles following Dietrich Mateschitz's death.
Laurent Mekies, with a long career in F1 from engineer to team principal, has been appointed CEO of Red Bull Racing following Christian Horner's departure, marking a significant step in his motorsport journey and leadership at the top level of Formula 1.
Max Verstappen praised Christian Horner for their 'incredible successes' and record-breaking achievements together at Red Bull Racing, following Horner's recent departure after over 20 years, with Laurent Mekies set to take over as team boss.
Christian Horner was unexpectedly sacked as Red Bull Racing team principal after 20 years, amid a challenging period for the team including internal tensions and recent losses, with Laurent Mekies appointed as his replacement. The decision follows a tumultuous 18 months for Horner, including allegations of misconduct and team struggles, but his leadership had previously led Red Bull to multiple championships, including a record-breaking 2023 season. The change in leadership may influence Max Verstappen's future with the team.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko expressed confusion over Max Verstappen's controversial decisions during the Spanish GP, where Verstappen received a 10-second penalty and penalty points after a series of incidents, including a clash with George Russell. Marko highlighted Verstappen's emotional state and questionable judgment during the race, which led to a significant points loss and near a race ban, with Verstappen later apologizing for his actions.
Sergio Perez's future at Red Bull Racing appears uncertain as the team considers Liam Lawson as a potential partner for Max Verstappen in 2025. Despite Perez's insistence on fulfilling his contract through next year, Red Bull sees Lawson as a less problematic choice, capable of playing a supportive role to Verstappen. While Perez faces pressure due to underperformance, Lawson's consistent performance makes him a favorable option for the team.
Max Verstappen has labeled George Russell a "backstabber" after their dispute over a penalty incident in Qatar, where Verstappen accused Russell of misrepresenting their interactions to the stewards. The tension between the two drivers continued in Abu Dhabi, with Russell calling Verstappen a bully. Verstappen dismissed Russell's claims and expressed that their relationship is beyond repair, emphasizing that he is not in Formula 1 to make friends.
The Dutch Grand Prix will conclude its run on the Formula 1 calendar after 2026, despite offers to continue, as confirmed by event director Robert van Overdijk. This decision comes amid speculation about Max Verstappen's future with Red Bull, as he may switch teams by then. Verstappen, a four-time F1 World Champion, has been a major draw for the Dutch GP, but organizers prefer to end on a high note rather than risk waning enthusiasm. The final Dutch GP will feature the F1 Sprint format for the first time.
Red Bull Racing is expected to part ways with Sergio Perez after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as the Mexican driver has struggled to perform this season, finishing only eighth in the drivers' standings. Team principal Christian Horner acknowledged Perez's contributions over the years but noted the challenges faced this season. Red Bull's shareholders will meet after the race to finalize their driver lineup for 2025, with Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda as potential replacements. The decision will align with Red Bull's philosophy of promoting drivers from within their program.
Red Bull Racing is expected to part ways with Sergio Perez after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with discussions set to finalize the team's driver lineup for 2025. Despite Perez's contributions, including five Grand Prix wins, his performance this season has been underwhelming, leading to speculation about his future. Red Bull is considering promoting a driver from its own program, with Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda as potential candidates. The decision will be made in a meeting with Red Bull's shareholders following the season finale.
Sergio Pérez faces uncertainty about his future with Red Bull Racing as he heads into the final race of the Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi. Despite a challenging year and being outperformed by teammate Max Verstappen, Pérez remains confident about his position, citing team support and a contract extension for 2025. However, his recent poor performances have fueled speculation about a potential exit, with Red Bull considering replacements from its junior team, including Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson. A decision on Pérez's future is expected after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
