15/07/2025 07:25
Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has confirmed that
upgrades will be introduced in the next two grands prix, handing
Max Verstappen a major boost. The Milton Keynes-based outfit has
updates planned for the upcoming races in Belgium and Hungary ahead
of F1's summer shutdown for two weeks in August. It could offer
Verstappen a chance to compete with McLaren, whose advantage has
increased dramatically in recent races. Whilst the four-time F1
champion delivered a stunning lap to secure pole in the British
Grand Prix, the McLarens finished 35 seconds ahead of the field by
the chequered flag. Verstappen has been particularly vocal
following Friday practice sessions about the RB21, leading to
significant overnight changes becoming a common occurrence before
qualifying. The next round in Spa-Francorchamps is at least at a
circuit loved by Verstappen, and a track Marko expects will suit
the Austrian outfit. "We soon have the sprint format grand prix
weekend in Belgium and the Hungarian Grand Prix ahead of us," Marko
wrote in his Speedweek column. "The Spa-Francorchamps circuit
should suit our car better, especially under the normally very
changeable weather conditions. We are optimistic about that."
Whilst Marko has high hopes for Belgium, an event which will see
Laurent Mekies take charge of Red Bull for the first time, the
82-year-old is less confident about Hungary. The Hungaroring has
been a difficult venue for Red Bull and Verstappen in recent
seasons, although Marko is at least wanting to see a positive
impact from the upgrade packages. "Hungary could be a bit trickier
for us, because of the track layout and because of the usually high
temperatures," assessed Marko. "But we will have new parts on the
car for both weekends, and we hope this will show a positive
effect."
