Max Verstappen confesses Red Bull ‘expected more’ out of RB21 in preseason testing

Max Verstappen admitted that Red Bull was not fully satisfied from its running during preseason testing in Bahrain.

Max Verstappen confesses Red Bull ‘expected more’ out of RB21 in preseason testing

Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

Max Verstappen and Red Bull face immense pressure in 2025 after a challenging campaign last year. Milton Keynes hoped to make progress with its new car this season. However, Verstappen has raised concerns after preseason testing.

The reigning world champion was initially happy with his new challenger, claiming that everything was under control. Moreover, the 27-year-old hinted that the RB21 was better than its predecessor. Though, Verstappen recently labeled McLaren as the favorites for the upcoming season.

YouTube video

After testing, Max Verstappen asserted that things are never good enough for a team like Red Bull Racing. Though, the Dutch driver admitted that the Austrian team expected more from its new chassis during the three-day test at the Sakhir International Circuit. As Red Bull seemed to lag behind McLaren over the course of the session.

FS Video

It’s never good enough, of course, but maybe we expected a bit more from Bahrain.

Max Verstappen told Viaplay

Red Bull ‘needs’ to improve before Australian GP

Verstappen has already refuted chances of Red Bull being the fastest at the season-opener in Melbourne. The 27-year-old highlighted that Milton Keynes was analyzing data from testing to understand its position. Nevertheless, the four-time world champion made it clear that the RB21 needs to improve if they want to fight for victory in Australia.

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen
Christian Horner and Max Verstappen (via F1)

After testing, you have time to analyze the data and draw conclusions. I think things can be optimized further in Melbourne, but as I said, there are still things we need to improve.

Max Verstappen explained

Certainly, Max Verstappen has given a realistic verdict over Red Bull’s current position in the pecking order. The reigning world champion wants to see the team improve the car in time to make a difference for the first round of the season. However, it remains to be seen if this demand can be met by the crew at Milton Keynes.