Red Bull Advisor Dr. Helmut Marko C...read more

Red Bull Advisor Dr. Helmut Marko C…read more

As the 2025 Formula 1 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, Red Bull Racing’s senior advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko, has voiced strong opposition to the FIA’s decision to implement stricter front wing stress tests mid-season. The new regulations are set to take effect at the Spanish Grand Prix in June.

Marko labeled the timing of the rule change as “madness,” arguing that it disrupts teams’ strategies and car designs already established under existing regulations. He emphasized that such mid-season alterations are unreasonable and impractical, potentially impacting the competitive balance of the championship.

Despite his criticism, Marko acknowledged that Red Bull’s lead driver, Max Verstappen, has demonstrated exceptional skill in handling a “shaky” car, suggesting that the team may still find an advantage under the new testing standards.

The FIA’s decision also includes tightened rear wing tests, with Ferrari and McLaren expected to face scrutiny starting this weekend. These changes come amid broader technical overhauls anticipated by 2026, including increased minimum driver weight allowances and the introduction of driver cooling kits.

The 2025 season features a competitive driver lineup, with prominent names such as Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Lando Norris. Red Bull’s internal dynamics have also seen shifts, with Liam Lawson replacing Sergio Pérez following the latter’s underwhelming performance. Marko has set clear expectations for Lawson, emphasizing the need to stay within three-tenths of Verstappen’s pace to contribute effectively to the team’s success.

As the season unfolds, Red Bull faces both regulatory challenges and internal transitions, all while striving to maintain its competitive edge in the evolving landscape of Formula 1.