Max Verstappen heads into this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix under growing pressure to reverse his recent form slump and reinvigorate his Formula 1 title defence. The four-time world champion, who has gone winless in the last three races, is counting on Red Bull’s new upgrade package to deliver immediate results at their home track in Spielberg.
Although Verstappen has previously dominated at the Red Bull Ring, securing four wins, this season’s competition—led by McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris—presents a far greater challenge.
While Verstappen will be cheered on by his loyal "orange army," he acknowledges that fan support and familiarity with the track may not be enough this time. McLaren’s strength on medium-speed circuits, coupled with hot weather expected to favour their setup, has Red Bull consultant Helmut Marko issuing caution.
Marko warned that without a breakthrough in Austria or at Silverstone, Red Bull may have to shift focus entirely to their 2026 car, given the sport’s tight cost cap and looming regulation changes. Meanwhile, Verstappen is also managing the risk of a race ban, just two penalty points away from suspension.
Red Bull’s team principal Christian Horner admitted that the car's current weakness lies in medium-speed corners, an issue that could hinder them in Austria’s second sector. Meanwhile, Mercedes—buoyed by George Russell’s win in Montreal and rookie Kimi Antonelli’s podium—are expected to mount a serious challenge, while Ferrari remains cautious after a disappointing season.
McLaren’s Norris, having endured a frustrating collision with Verstappen last year and a recent crash with Piastri in Canada, will be eager to stay clean and stay in contention for the championship.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes team boss, expects a close contest among the front-runners, saying Austria will be a solid test for their recent improvements. While Red Bull hopes the upgrades close the performance gap, rivals are poised to strike, making the Austrian Grand Prix a pivotal chapter in this season’s tightly contested championship battle.
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