Max Verstappen Struggles with Red Bull’s Low-Speed Issues in Monaco Grand Prix
In a disappointing turn of events for Max Verstappen, the Red Bull driver faced ongoing challenges with the team’s performance in low-speed corners during the 2025 Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. Despite his efforts, Verstappen qualified in fifth place, over seven tenths off pole position, as he grappled with extracting the desired performance from his RB21 on the tight streets of Monte Carlo.
Acknowledging the team’s struggles, Verstappen expressed his frustration, labeling Red Bull as “weak” in low-speed corners. Even after adjustments following free practice sessions, the Dutchman found himself unable to secure a pole position, settling for the third row on the grid. A three-place grid penalty for Lewis Hamilton bumped Verstappen up to fourth, offering a slight reprieve in a challenging weekend.
Reflecting on the issues faced, Verstappen highlighted the team’s longstanding struggle with low-speed performance, a problem that has persisted since 2022. Despite some progress from the previous season, the reigning World Champion lamented the continued difficulty Red Bull faces in such conditions. Verstappen emphasized, “It’s always been our problem from the start of 2022, and it’s still our problem.”
Monaco has proven to be a tough battleground for Verstappen, with mixed results in recent years. While boasting two victories at the circuit, including a triumph in 2023, the Red Bull driver admitted that Monaco is “just not our track.” The challenges posed by the low-speed corners and unique characteristics of the circuit have presented ongoing obstacles for the team.
Struggling to find the necessary grip to push the RB21 to its limits, Verstappen expressed disappointment at not being able to fully exploit the car’s potential during qualifying. Despite hopes for a stronger performance, the lack of grip ultimately hampered his efforts, leading to a subdued qualifying result in Monaco.
As the Monaco Grand Prix unfolds, all eyes will be on Verstappen and Red Bull as they navigate the demanding circuit and work to overcome the persistent low-speed issues that have plagued their performance. Will Verstappen be able to rise above the challenges and secure a strong finish in Monaco? Only time will tell as the race weekend progresses.