Red Bull hint at more upgrades to boost Verstappen’s title charge

Red Bull aren’t done yet – not by a long shot. While most of the F1 grid has shifted focus to 2026, the bulls are doubling down on the present, teasing yet more upgrades for the RB21 that could supercharge Max Verstappen’s late-season title charge.

After a commanding victory at the United States Grand Prix, Verstappen’s third in the last four races, the Dutchman has slashed Oscar Piastri’s once-commanding championship lead to just 40 points.

And with five rounds remaining, Red Bull’s comeback is gathering serious momentum – powered by a car that seems to get sharper by the week.

The Chase Is On

Red Bull’s revival has left its rivals reeling, but Helmut Marko insists the mission is far from complete. The team, he revealed, won’t be content with mere podiums – only wins will do.

“We have to win, so just eight points or three points isn’t enough, but let’s see,” said the ever-blunt Marko. “There are still some exciting races to come where the first corner is critical and Max drives easily.”

The F1 veteran knows there’s risk in pushing so hard, but also believes Red Bull’s position gives them a hidden edge.

“We clearly have something to lose, but the pressure isn’t on our side and that should also be an advantage,” he insisted.

Marko also suggested that the growing tension might be getting to McLaren’s championship leader.

“You can also see it in qualifying that Piastri is making mistakes. And yes, that’s good,” he said.

More Firepower in the Pipeline

That relentless drive extends beyond Verstappen’s form. While McLaren has halted development on its MCL39 to shift resources toward next year, Red Bull are pressing on with upgrades to keep the pressure on.

“We still have something up our sleeve. I don’t know exactly when it will come,” Marko told Austria’s  after last Sunday’s race in Austin.

And it’s not just the car that’s brimming with energy – the entire Red Bull camp, he says, is feeding off Verstappen’s run of form.

“There’s a great atmosphere in the team right now,” Marko added. “You can see that McLaren no longer has that ease. Piastri also struggled a bit more today. I hope it stays that way.”

With Verstappen firing on all cylinders, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor believes the team has regained its all-round edge.

“There is no longer a track where we are not competitive. And if there is, it’s Max who makes the difference,” Marko concluded.

It’s a defiant message from a team rediscovering its swagger. Verstappen’s mission to haul in McLaren still looks steep – but with a faster car, a confident garage, and a few more upgrades “up their sleeve,” Red Bull might just be about to make the impossible look inevitable.

Read also:

• Wolff: ‘Underdog’ Verstappen holds ‘psychological advantage’

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