Verstappen’s camp sets out conditions for long-term future at Red Bull

Speaking in an interview for the podcast The Inside Track, Vermeulen reiterated Verstappen and his camp’s loyalty to Red Bull, but also stressed that loyalty alone won’t be enough for the future.

Unlike the middle part of the season, when the RB21 had suffered a significant drop compared to the clear dominance of the MCL39, things have now improved significantly and the car is competitive again. However, Vermeulen stressed that circumstances can always change quickly.

“It seems to be that we're still in the front, but it is a very competitive world. But I have to say, I can see, even with the engine program, they're putting everything together to build a very good car and package.”

He finally added: “For the moment, we're very happy where we are. But of course, we need the material to keep winning.”

At the Hungaroring, the Dutchman confirmed staying with the Milton Keynes-based team for next season, putting to rest months of speculation about a possible move to Mercedes.

Although he lost 10 points to race winner Lando Norris, the four-time world champion still cut another 4 points off the championship lead, which now sees him 36 points behind the Brit, who has become the new championship leader with four races and two sprints remaining.

Focusing on the title fight, Helmut Marko stated that “everything at Red Bull Racing has to be absolutely perfect” if they truly hope to go for a fifth consecutive title—a feat that, for now, remains in the hands of the two McLarens despite a few setbacks.