The Formula 1 world is completely upside down after a sensational announcement from Red Bull Racing. The Austrian team announced on Wednesday that this weekend during theGrand Prix van Nederland in Zandvoortpossibly not withMax Verstappenwill appear at the start. Instead, Red Bull is looking for a temporary replacement for the reigning world champion, after a series of disappointing results that have made the team doubt his current form.
The decision came as a thunderbolt in clear sky. Verstappen, triple world champion and public favorite in his own country, has so far been seen as the face of Red Bull and the most important asset in the battle for the title. Yet team boss Christian Horner hinted that the pressure on the Dutchman is increasing.“As a team, we always have to make the best possible choices to win. Max is incredibly important to us, but the latest results give cause for care. We have therefore decided to keep an alternative option behind,” “Thus Horner during a short press conference.
According to insiders, Red Bull would have already appointed a replacement. The name that emerged, caused even more commotion in the paddock:Liam Lawson, the young New Zealander, who previously made an impression as a reserve driver, would be ready to take over the Wagen from Verstappen if the knot is made. Lawson, who was already allowed to come in some races last year, is seen as a great talent and future F1 star.
The reaction of the immediate vicinity of Verstappen did not take long.If Verstappen, Max’s father, reacted furiously.“This is a slap in the face of Max and from the whole of the Netherlands. How can you just put your best driver, who has achieved everything for this team, just aside after a few lesser results? This is disrespectful and irresponsible,”he said to the media present. He also emphasized that his son is mentally strong enough to fight back and that Red Bull creates chaos instead of peace with this decision.
The fans react shocked and divided. For the thousands of Dutch supporters who would travel to Zandvoort this weekend to see their hero in action, the news feels like a nightmare.“We buy tickets, hotels and travel to support Max. Without him this event loses its magic,”A fan announced on social media. At the same time, there are also voices that believe that Red Bull should act in the interest of the team and that even an icon like Verstappen is not above criticism.
Analysts point out that the situation is extremely explosive. Verstappen and Red Bull seemed like an inseparable duo for years, but in recent months it has been rumbling within the team. Rumors about internal tensions, technical problems and the growing pressure of competitors such as McLaren and Mercedes have led to an unprecedented crisis.
Whether Verstappen will actually miss his home race remains uncertain for the time being. Red Bull has announced that it will make the final decision no later than Friday. However, one thing is certain: the Grand Prix of the Netherlands 2025 will enter the history books, regardless of whether or not Max Verstappen appears on the grid.
