Photo: RacePictures.

Verstappen clear on Red Bull shift: From turbulence to family calm

16:05, 01 Oct

byNorberto Mujica

Max Verstappen has spoken of past turbulence within Red Bull, and has indicated that the team is starting to "feel like a family again."

Various things changed back then. I have to say: Now it feels like a family again.

- Max Verstappen

Verstappen was quick to acknowledge the state of the atmosphere within the team until a few months ago. "Of course turbulent," said the four-time world champion in an interview with Sky Sports Germany.

"In the end, we talked a lot about it. I have to say that it's very calm in the team now and [there's] a good atmosphere and that's how it has to be."

However, performance is the ultimate benchmark in Formula One, and Verstappen feels it's a key where Red Bull are still looking to improve: "In terms of performance, we are not satisfied this year."

Max Verstappen celebrating - Photo: RacePictures

However, internal cohesion, harmony, and ultimately that family-like feeling that builds a team up is flourishing once again, which in turn also helps the team move things forward.

"Of course I hope so. I have to say: The Red Bull family is top. We've been together for a long time I've always said that I'd like to drive here to the end [of his Formula One career]. That was always the dream and it's still there."

For a time, though, Verstappen let the media and rumours swirl regarding a potential move away from Red Bull. "Various things changed back then. I have to say: Now it feels like a family again," added the Dutchman. "We have always talked about it [the future] quite openly. You do it like a family."

Max Verstappen won at the Nordschleife - Photo: GPblog

During the Hungarian Grand Prix, Verstappen announced his decision to continue on with Red Bull Racing in 2026 because according to him it "felt the best."

"A few things have changed in the team. I see the positive side of it. They told me everything openly. There is a lot of trust."

After committing his future to the Austrian team, Verstappen hopes that "we can now take the steps forward."

Verstappen's 2025 title charge's hopes are pinned on Singapore result

Following his back to back wins in Italy and Azerbaijan Verstappen has a chance, albeit a slim one, to snatch the world title away from McLaren. While Red Bull Racing chief advisor Helmut Marko tried to wait until after Singapore to issue judgment on his driver's chances at the championship, the 81-year-old Austrian recently revealed that hope has been rekindled at Red Bull.

GPblog's latest F1 Paddock Update

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.