Max Verstappen's reign as Formula 1's dominant force appears to be coming to an end, with the four-time world champion facing an unprecedented challenge to retain his title.
The Dutchman currently sits 97 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri, marking the first time since 2021 that Verstappen has not been in contention for the drivers' championship at this stage of the season.
Red Bull's struggles have been evident throughout the 2025 campaign, with the team's once-dominant RB21 car proving difficult to handle and lacking the pace that secured four consecutive constructors' titles.
Verstappen has managed just two victories this season, with his last win coming at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in May, highlighting the dramatic shift in competitive balance.
The situation at Red Bull has been further complicated by significant internal restructuring, with team principal Christian Horner being dismissed after the British Grand Prix following a prolonged power struggle within the organization.
Laurent Mekies has since taken over as team principal, tasked with rebuilding the team's competitiveness ahead of the major regulation changes in 2026.
Despite the challenges, Verstappen finally committed his future to Red Bull just before the summer break, ending speculation about a potential move to Mercedes.
However, his contract situation beyond 2027 remains undecided, adding another layer of uncertainty to Red Bull's future planning.
At his home circuit of Zandvoort, where he has won three of the last four races, Verstappen will be desperate to rediscover the form that made him the sport's most feared competitor.
The Dutchman currently sits 97 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri, marking the first time since 2021 that Verstappen has not been in contention for the drivers' championship at this stage of the season.
Red Bull's struggles have been evident throughout the 2025 campaign, with the team's once-dominant RB21 car proving difficult to handle and lacking the pace that secured four consecutive constructors' titles.
Verstappen has managed just two victories this season, with his last win coming at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in May, highlighting the dramatic shift in competitive balance.
The situation at Red Bull has been further complicated by significant internal restructuring, with team principal Christian Horner being dismissed after the British Grand Prix following a prolonged power struggle within the organization.
Laurent Mekies has since taken over as team principal, tasked with rebuilding the team's competitiveness ahead of the major regulation changes in 2026.
Despite the challenges, Verstappen finally committed his future to Red Bull just before the summer break, ending speculation about a potential move to Mercedes.
However, his contract situation beyond 2027 remains undecided, adding another layer of uncertainty to Red Bull's future planning.
At his home circuit of Zandvoort, where he has won three of the last four races, Verstappen will be desperate to rediscover the form that made him the sport's most feared competitor.
