'Red Bull falls short': They no longer believe in Verstappen's 5th title

10:19, 10 Jun

byLudo van Denderen

Ralf Schumacher does not expect Max Verstappen to be able to become world champion in 2025. Not because the defending champion has suddenly become a lesser driver, but because his car is not fast enough compared to the McLaren.

Max Verstappen has not believed for months; a fifth consecutive Formula 1 world title. Although the Red Bull Racing driver will undoubtedly keep fighting as best he can for the rest of the season, the Dutchman realizes that his RB21 is simply too slow.

'Red Bull cannot cope with McLaren'

It's a thought Ralf Schumacher identifies with, he says in a preview of the German Sky Sports on the Canadian Grand Prix. "I think the title this year is an illusion," believes the former F1 driver.

Ralf Schumacher gives Max Verstappen little hope

"Max can make a difference, but not always, and the car is not up to expectations, and unfortunately, neither is the team. Max cannot close this gap in the long run. Then he doesn't stand a chance against McLaren, unless the two McLaren drivers crash into each other," says Schumacher.

A glance at the current standings shows that Verstappen is not at a considerable gap from leader Oscar Piastri. McLaren's Aussie driver currently stands ahead of the Dutchman by the equivalent of almost two Grands Prix.