Pre-season testing in Bahrain also did not go to plan for Red Bull, with Verstappen and team-mate Liam Lawson struggling to handle their new RB21 cars. Technical director Pierre Wache admitted the vehicles “did not respond how we wanted at times.”

F1 icon Ralf Schumacher has now shot down Verstappen’s hopes of maintaining momentum this year. The former Williams man believes the driving ability of the 27-year-old papered over the cracks for his team in 2024.

“Last year it was clear. Red Bull was very strong at the start of the season, but then they couldn’t handle the car,” he told Sky Germany. “Verstappen was the rescue. However, he will have to get used to everything coming to an end. I don’t think he has a chance.”

That verdict will alert the four contenders fancied to strongly challenge Verstappen this time around. The Ferrari duo of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, along with McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, are all being tipped to be in the title picture.

Verstappen is contracted at Red Bull until the end of 2028, but his deal reportedly included a “performance element” that would allow him to leave if the team are outside the top three in the championship. Schumacher thinks a poor 2025 season could well lead to a departure.

“Maybe that (a poor campaign) will help in his decision about a next step,” added the 49-year-old. “I seriously think he’s going to struggle.”