The Formula 1 world is once again in turmoil after a tumultuous weekend in Bahrain, where Red Bull team boss Christian Horner made an urgent statement about the team’s future. At the same time, the FIA announced a late disqualification that further inflamed emotions. The combination of internal strife at Red Bull and the FIA’s controversial decision has captured the attention of fans and insiders alike. What exactly is going on, and how does it affect the dynamics of the 2025 championship?
The Bahrain Grand Prix was a disappointment for Red Bull, with Max Verstappen finishing only sixth due to ongoing issues with the RB21. The car is struggling with balance issues, and Verstappen’s frustrations were clearly visible. After the race, Horner held an emergency meeting with the team, where, according to sources close to Red Bull, he made a statement about the team’s direction. “We have to do everything we can to support Max,” Horner is reported to have said, referring to the need to improve the car and restore calm within the team. The recent chaos surrounding Liam Lawson, who was replaced by Yuki Tsunoda after two races, has further increased tensions within Red Bull. Verstappen has openly expressed his displeasure with the decision, fueling speculation about his future at the team.
Horner stressed in his statement that Red Bull is fully behind Verstappen and that the focus is on solving the technical issues. He also pointed to the need to better integrate Tsunoda, who scored points in Bahrain with a ninth place. However, the pressure on Horner appears to be increasing. Adrian Newey’s departure to Aston Martin and the RB21’s inconsistent performance have raised questions about his leadership. According to Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle, Horner faces a crucial test: “If Red Bull want to keep Verstappen, they have to give him a car that can win.” With rivals Mercedes and McLaren performing better in Bahrain, the urgency is greater than ever.
Meanwhile, the FIA added fuel to the fire with a late disqualification after the race in Bahrain. Nico Hülkenberg, who had initially finished outside the points for Haas, was disqualified from the results because the skidblocks on his car were too worn. The FIA measured a thickness of 8.4 mm, below the 9 mm required by article 3.5.9 of the technical regulations. Haas admitted the error, and the disqualification was inevitable. This decision followed another controversy surrounding George Russell, who was investigated for alleged illegal use of his DRS system due to a malfunction. However, the FIA ruled that Russell did not deserve a penalty, as the team had been allowed to activate it manually due to an external timing failure.
Hulkenberg’s disqualification and Russell’s acquittal have sparked mixed reactions. Verstappen, who has long been critical of the FIA’s inconsistency, called the rules “too arbitrary”. He referred to previous incidents, such as the disqualifications of Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc and Pierre Gasly in China for technical infringements. “One time it’s a fine, another time it’s a disqualification. It’s hard to follow,” he said after the race. This frustration is shared by other drivers, including Lando Norris, who was given a time penalty in Bahrain for a minor infringement on the grid.
The FIA has been under pressure to clarify regulations, particularly with the stricter controls on flexible wings introduced after Australia. Red Bull, which has historically benefited from grey areas in the rules, expressed its displeasure at the FIA’s late intervention through Horner. “We need clarity, not chaos,” he said, referring to the impact of unpredictable penalties on teams’ preparations. However, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s recent warning – “Rules are there to be followed” – appears to have done little to impress the teams, who are demanding more transparency.
For Red Bull, the situation is precarious. With McLaren dominating the constructors’ championship and Mercedes closing in, the team can afford no more missteps. Horner’s statement underscores the focus on Verstappen, but the question remains whether it will be enough to keep the four-time world champion happy. Rumors of a potential move to Mercedes or Aston Martin continue to circulate, especially with the 2026 rule changes looming. As Formula 1 gears up for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, all eyes are on Red Bull and the FIA. Will Horner restore calm, and can the FIA curb the growing discontent? The tension in the paddock is palpable, and the season promises to be full of fireworks.
