Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner believes the clampdown of the Spanish Grand Prix Flexi Wing could be a “game changer” for the Formula 1 title race.
One point separates Randnoris and Max Barstappen at the top of the Formula 1 driver championship.
Verstappen delivered the master class and won his final race from pole position at Suzuka.
This means Verstappen, Norris and Oscar Piastri each won one race this weekend towards Bahrain Grampurin.
It is widely accepted that McLaren has the fastest car in Formula 1.
For the Spanish Grand Prix in June, the FIA will introduce more rigorous testing to compete with flexible front wings.
Red Bull expects the new ruling to potentially affect McLaren’s competitiveness, opening Verstappen’s doors in the title race.
Before that, there are still five races. This means that Verstappen must continue to close the distance to capitalize.
Talked to Channel 4 after Sunday’s race, Horner said:
“So we’re one point behind the driver’s championship. Don’t underestimate the race 9 regulations change. With these front wings, it could be a game changer. The first four are very tight, and as you know, there’s no better tonic than a win.”
Horner: Verstappen is “very committed”
With the Red Bull recession, Verstappen’s Formula 1 future continues to dominate the headlines.
With both Mercedes drivers finished their contracts at the end of 2025, Verstappen could be an option for them.
Mercedes boss Totowolf expressed serious interest in Verstappen last year before deciding on Kimi Antonelli.
Aston Martin, who will be in power with Honda starting next year, is interested in Verstappen.
However, Horner believes Verstappen is “very committed” to Red Bull and his interest in drivers is expected.
“I think Max made his position very clear before the weekend,” Horner added.
“He is very committed to the team, the environment he is in. He works harder than we’ve seen behind the scenes with his engineering staff.
“Of course, Max is the most in demand driver in the paddock, but I think he’s happy where he is and knows he needs to continue improving.