The Max Verstappen Dilemma

According to his old boss, Max Verstappen is unopposed at Red Bull and no existing or future driver can ever defeat him in equal machinery. Well, Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda would like to query that as they stake their claim for 2025.
Unlock the secrets of the Max Verstappen Dilemma in our latest KZbin video! Dive deep into the world of Formula 1 as we unravel the insights shared by Franz Tost, the former Toro Rosso and AlphaTauri boss. Tost's bold statement that no one can outshine Max Verstappen or be a perfect teammate to him has stirred up the F1 community, and we break down the reasons behind this assertion. Explore the intriguing journey of the Red Bull Junior program, where the search for the next Max Verstappen has been halted by Helmet Marko. We analyze the prospects of Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo, both vying for the coveted second seat at Red Bull in 2025.
Discover the crucial qualities that set Max apart from the competition and how they shape his dominance in the sport. Gain valuable insights into what it takes to thrive as a teammate in the highly competitive world of Formula 1. Our video sheds light on the dynamics of the Red Bull Racing team, their pursuit of excellence, and the strategic decisions they face in choosing the right drivers.
Join us on this thrilling journey through the F1 landscape, where talent, ambition, and teamwork collide. Stay ahead of the curve with our in-depth analysis and engaging content. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more thought-provoking discussions and captivating Formula 1 content! Stay updated with the latest in the world of F1 by hitting that notification bell.
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If you're looking for the latest Formula 1 news, you've come to the right place! Red Bull Racing has been making headlines with their star driver, Max Verstappen, who is currently leading the Formula One championship. The rivalry between Max Verstappen and his former teammate Daniel Ricciardo has been a hot topic in the F1 community. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda has been making waves at AlphaTauri, the sister team of Red Bull, with his impressive performances on the track. Speaking of AlphaTauri, they've undergone a name change and are now known as Alpha Tauri. As we look ahead to the 2024 season, Racing Bulls, the parent team of Red Bull and AlphaTauri, is expected to continue dominating the F1 scene. For all the F1 updates and the latest on Verstappen, Tsunoda, Ricciardo, and the Racing Bulls F1 team, stay tuned!
Copyright Disclaimer: Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, "fair use" is allowed for things like criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is when a copyright law lets you use something in a way that would otherwise be against the law. In some scenes, race footage from the Formula 1 calendar is used whose rights belong to FOM. Other photos and news items are only used to help the original content.

[@LawVS]

My socials: linktr.ee/lawvs Don't Put Leclerc or Norris In Red Bull: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZ61nHuraJWleaM

[@AAb-xy6et]

3:32 "Wasn't that bad considering his age" Are you joking? Max only lost two races against his teammate in all the races Max finished the entire season. Call me any active F1 driver who outscores his teammate during his debut year at all, Max got more then 2ce as many points as his teammate, closer near 3 actually. And Max his teammate at the time is one of the greatest F1 drivers out there right now.

[@RedWeather2004]

They had no choice except to rush in Gasly/Albon after Ricc's exit in 2018 If they had more time at Toro Rosso, they'd be a bit better than how they performed

[@LawVS]

Of course. Hence why I reckon that the entire Red Bull Junior Programme started to implode; the cogs turning initially when Carlos Sainz skipped over to Renault.

[@EvanRudolph1]

you are wrong@@LawVS

[@rvx5818]

Also I'm still praying to see Yuki on podium one day! I was really hoping he was going to finish that last race at Abu Dhabi at least at P5-P6. A girl can dream!

[@LawVS]

HE was so close in 2021 though and nobody noticed.

[@rvx5818]

@@LawVS I've noticed people [fans/other creators] bring it up a lot now though haha

[@NeonColored]

ah, a fellow adc enjoyer

[@charlesdarwin7253]

Girls can dream too???

[@CurtisHuffman-cj5qm]

I like Daniel but goodness I want to see Yuki get a shot in the RB and Liam to replace him in the sister team and get a full season in F1. Something that I see people fail to acknowledge is that Daniel, like Checo, prefers a distinctly stable rear end balance of the car. If Daniel ends up next to Max I don't see him fairing much better than Checo. Which means a clear number two driver but also means inconsistent performances and crashes. That is where Yuki comes in. To me it is a much harder equation to predict. I do think Yuki can handle the RB and won't be consistently faster than Max. Aka, the perfect number two. Again, I like Daniel, but he had a chance and walked away. Yuki have yet to be graced the opportunity at a top team. Thumbs up for Yuki in a RB! 👇

[@The_ZeroLine]

Daniel liked the same EXACT setup as Max. So, this argument doesn’t exactly hold. Liam performed admirably, but all his hype came from one lucky 9th in Singapore where he’s finishing around P13-P14 without 5 highly unlikely DNFs in front of him (half of them ironically aided by Perez) and Sainz holding the field up at a slow pace. Also, Max balking Yuki, who had been faster all weekend, in quali helped him too. I think Yuki is a lot better than most give him credit for. I’d like to see some consistency though and maturity before he moves up to the big time.

[@CurtisHuffman-cj5qm]

"Daniel liked the same EXACT setup as Max" in 2018. That was when RIC had input within the team and whos feedback mattered. The 2023 RB was pushed in a direction of being extremely pointing of a car with a high oversteer balance. Even drivers that like the same balance as Max still couldn't handle to the degree that Max and Adrian have pushed that car towards. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIHOnqiMrLR3q8ksi=PlHOG9Ym-bu804Wh @@The_ZeroLine

[@The_ZeroLine]

@@CurtisHuffman-cj5qm First of all, Adrian Newey has always designed for maximum potential. He wouldn’t compromise his designs to suit a style. Playing with the setup cannot change a car’s fundamental handling characteristics. Secondly, this idea that ONLY Max can drive such “pointy” cars just cause Sergio, whose always only thrived with rear-limited cars and tracks cannot cope, makes no sense. The whole “most insanely loose setup that no other driver could handle” is basically just yet another Max myth. There are and have been many drivers who liked high levels of turn in and crazy rear rotation.

[@CurtisHuffman-cj5qm]

High negative rack cars open the most room for aerodynamicist to work with. And I never said Max was the only person who liked a pointy car. Just that Daniel and Checo don't. You mentioned 2018 but lets talk about some aspects of each driver a bit closer to today for relevance's sake. Daniels lack of pace in 2022 at McLaren was due to not coping with the instability of the MCL36. Something that Lando didn't like but wasn't hindered by as much. Same goes for Checo 22-23 in the RB18/19. At the start of 22 Checo was strong because the car was stable. As that year went by the car kept moving to a more rotational platform and his pace kept dropping equally to the balance. Not to mention him trying to run the same setup as Max led to many accidents. 23 was more of the same. Checo finally gave up trying Max's setups and runs the same car but with a more stable balance and the lack of pace to Max is the result. See Miami 2023. The similarities here are strong. I'm quoting facts. My point holds. @@The_ZeroLine

[@RML0317]

I'm really looking forward to the next season, the Daniel vs. Yuki battle alone should be entertaining. I do see Daniel getting the seat, purely because of his marketability.

[@LawVS]

It's a head-to-head I am very excited to see play out.

[@adamsteinmetz3223]

Shame that we have to consider marketability as one of the main factors for getting a top seat

[@RML0317]

@@adamsteinmetz3223 I fully agree, but that’s just the reality of F1 these days

[@The_ZeroLine]

They won’t put him in if he doesn’t beat Yuki. So, this whole marketability thing with Daniel is so oversold. The real reason he has an edge is because everyone, especially RBR, know he has a very high potential ceiling. And people are more apt to gamble on a driver regaining a really high ceiling than someone whose ceiling they feel is lower.

[@rvx5818]

Ooohh this RB saga continues! I love all three of these drivers but I have my reservations about Max being the teammate to either one. I know it's an unpopular opinion, but I'm still a little on the fence about Daniel's capabilities. I love Yuki and I think he did amazing in 2023, but I'm not sure if he'd be a good match against Max especially given the fact that Daniel was the only driver who could really match let alone actually compete alongside Max. However, that was when Daniel was at his prime hence my doubts. Also I agree that Liam, although a bright spark, needs longer in a season before stepping up to RB.

[@LawVS]

I would hate to see all three of them being snubbed for the seat over somebody from the outside. Again.

[@The_ZeroLine]

Yuki and Daniel have earned hyped. Liam has earned just consideration IMO. All his hype is based on a race where he would have finished around P14 if it weren’t for 5 DNFs from a combination of mechanical DNFs, Russell and Perez taking people out left and right. And Sainz keeping the pace really slow.

[@Ryzard]

Tbh it's a situation where I think there is no real winning scenario. Max needs to be treated like an outlier. Yuki, Daniel, or Checo could have a hard fought championship winning season... Until you look to the side and see max crushing everyone ten times harder. I think there isn't really a driver on the grid in the position to partner max, either through mismatch or already being settled into a team. It's an awkward spot for red bull. Feed the max machine, but it kinda costs the career of the other driver.

[@TheBriGuy129]

I don’t think any of the people usually brought up could match Max over a season like Lewis 2021 or Lewis/Rosberg 2016. Lando showed cracks just competing with Piastri, Leclerc lets him past every time he’s in front but will claim tire conservation or didn’t expect it, the most polite blistering fast driver in F1. But Checo, Danny, Tsunoda they would all crumble. The coldest drivers in my mind that aren’t going to be bullied by the Dutch racing robot are Alonso, Lewis kinda but he’s getting less pushy and for the upcomers Lawson, Piastri, or someone we haven’t seen yet. You can’t be crushed by the RBR machine emotionally or you’ll start stumbling on weekends every time.

[@LawVS]

It's true. We've yet to find a driver who has new baggae, fear or apprehension against Max. Enter Oscar Piastri.

[@pedro.gandra]

​@@LawVSImagine getting 30% of your teammates points and getting hyped like you are better than him, must feel good to be Oscar.

[@Ryzard]

Alonso on Max would be cinema, and the idea of Lewis somehow being Max's teammate is hilarious and would be... A show.

[@Daxboy16]

We're always shouting at Perez for not finishing 2nd every race, but I also can't see Ricciardo/Tsunoda making life difficult for Hamilton, Leclerc, Norris or Alonso (if they have good cars). They'd also get destroyed by Max. (especially Tsunoda, who is mentally not ready for a teammate like Verstappen.)

[@LawVS]

Checo doesn't have to finish 2nd all the time. He just has to not crash so much.

[@Daxboy16]

@@LawVS Also true, but Tsunoda also still crashes from time to time.

[@pedro.gandra]

Exactly lol, Tsunoda is the most overrated driver I have ever seen. There is no way Daniel and Yuki are performing better than Perez. Perez was racing pretty well until Miami, being close to Max. The day Tuki Tsunoda is close to Max Verstappen will be the day Nascar is better than F1.

[@davidmcdermott3415]

I really want to see Yuki get the seat. He was a great #2 for Gasly and would be awesome learning from Max.

[@LawVS]

I think Yuki getting it would be received well but so would Daniel getting it...it's a quandary.

[@TheCrystalChassis]

I'll never understand why Ricciardo went to Renault after suffering so many DNF's with the Renault power unit at Red Bull. I understand why he wanted a fresh start, but Renault was a strange choice. Fascinating to wonder what the '21 and onwards seasons would have been like if Daniel had stayed at Red Bull. Thanks for the great content over the off season.

[@LawVS]

Yeah it's bizarre. What sweet nothings did Cyril whisper in his ear?

[@broyout3586]

He was heavily incentivized by money I reckon. Plus promises from Renault that they would improve considerably. He didn't like the way the wind was blowing at Red Bull and needed a change. It didn't turn out all that he wished, but is wasn't a complete failure either (that would be his stint at McLaren). All in all, it was gamble, and it didn't pan out perfectly. But not that bad either.

[@mackenzietoscan3602]

⁠@@broyout3586I think if at most DR is mostly a 1st and half drive of what DC or Berger were. A number one driver in a midfield team or one in top team between championship

[@theubiquejim]

22 million euros tells you the reason why

[@The_ZeroLine]

I’d love to peek in the multiverse where it happens.

[@TheSlowoldman]

The thumbnail is fantastic. I think Franz Tost might know what he's talking about although he does sound a bit like Brits speaking of Hamilton. Max is a once in a generation talent, it's not just his fans that think so, it seems to be a bit of a consensus among those who know F1. I think it says more about Max than the guys coming up through the RB junior program. If you're made of the right stuff, it seems a great motivator although the bar is high, extremely high.

[@LawVS]

Oh yes. Franz has been there in the Red Bull Junior ranks since it was a thing and worked with them on the daily. His comments are worth plenty.

[@TheSlowoldman]

and I would love to see Danny Ricc back in a RB and I agree he would be the RB Bottas....... even though I think Danny's got a few more wins in him.

[@blakecapon4627]

that thumbnail made me spit out my coffee 👌🏻😂

[@LawVS]

I guess that's mission accomplished?

[@SuperMarkizas]

I still think it's going to be Daniel at RB, he is a known quantity, he knows his place, he was able to register time almost identical to Max's during test drive, at this point he is the perfect no. 2, and willing to remain no. 2 going forward. By current F1 standards he is still young enough to invest time into. A big plus - he is well liked, good at PR, opposite to Max.

[@LawVS]

I think you might be right. It's the safe bet but I want Yuki to give Daniel a challenge.

[@Ponchov009]

😂

[@y_fam_goeglyd]

I thnk it was in Abu Dhabi (or a race very close to it) when Max was asked if he wanted some other drivers to push him next year, and if being so far ahead without anyone close by was no challenge and was boring. (It was the Channel 4 broadcast.) He replied that whereas having someone there was a good thing and more fun, if he didn't have any competition he'd challenge himself. I think by that he was looking at doing the best lap each time and if possible, improve upon it next time around. This must be where we're getting to see his robot-like ability to knock one near perfect lap out after the next, and occasionally the fastest lap near the end of the race workout stopping for new tyres! That ability to challenge oneself to those limits is not something you see very often on any grid, but we're blessed with having a number of extremely talented drivers who can all knock each sector off the list of sectors to go (or come, depending on your POV). I don't know how many can do it from about lap 3 though... We're living in a very special time.

[@LawVS]

I see what you mean but sometimes some external challenges that aren't defined by oneself would be healthy for his further development.

[@MrDragonballzjp]

Max feels like a saiyan who seeks for a challange to battle other drivers.

[@OnionChoppingNinja]

Max strikes me more as a Gohan then a Goku though; being " forced" by his dad to fight a adversary he could not beat because he realized his son immense potential. Unlike Gohan Max did not peak at his first victory though so maybe not.

[@bangbangzz1]

Your Daniel Ricciardo impersonation is so good lol

[@juliswift]

I think Yuki will push Max more. Yuki wins every fun event when competing against Max. He is very competitive. Give Yuki a good car and he will prove himself.

[@LawVS]

Agreed. Max will see him as feisty and yes he will be faster but Yuki won't give up and that's what Red Bull likes - tenacious drivers.

[@Modi718]

Best thumbnail ever

[@marvvco]

Franz Tost coming out with spicy statements after retiring

[@LawVS]

I don't think he will ever retire. In fact there are rumours he will join Sky Sports as a pundit. Oh I'd love that, him being so ruthless.

[@RukaGoldheart]

You already got that comment, but good lord that thumbnail! I love it!.

[@imyuuki3310]

I've said about Yuki in your previous video, i like Daniel as much as the next guy but i still prefer Yuki in 2nd redbull bcs well... He proven himself more than enough, sure he can be a bit feisty and that outburst of him? That's entertaining to say the least, but he still very much a team player, a lot of ppl like to bring his Honda connection and Aston Martin even though he already adamant he will stay at redbull (ofc i don't see the possibility of him going to AM as naught). I just want him to be at performing car and not the one where you need to drag it to perform, give him 2-3 season he'll score many points, few 2nd or 3rd heck even cheeky 1st once or twice after that well idk, maybe he can finally retire and actually pursuing his dream of being a chef and open his own restaurant? That would be nice to see, a happy ending

[@LawVS]

True. He's done his time and Red Bull should honour it.

[@TheRealHoltzy]

Yuki actually secured his seat as part of Honda's engine deal with Redbull. Honda specifically requested that a Japanese driver be in a Honda powered car on the F1 grid. Yuki was the brightest of 2 such candidates and got the seat. When Honda leave F1, Yuki will be under extreme pressure to perform.

[@LawVS]

Oh yeah, this is nothing new. Honda has done this in the past, like with Satoru Nakajima in the 80s.

[@TheRealHoltzy]

Absolutely! Nakajima was an entertaining time XD

[@zilentzap]

Yesterday I was listening to the podcast of Laurens and Dries vanthoor and Rene East described that drivers are two different breeds, natural and analytical drivers. And it just makes sense, will take some time for RB to find another Verstappen and Tsunoda just has to beat Ricciardo, Dani is risking the last shot.

[@LawVS]

Definitely. Daniel knows this seat is his to lose and Yuki has almost nothing to lose. Honda won't abandon him.

[@Shlokiee]

2024 will be the decider for the Ricciardo vs Tsunoda debate. I really hope Ricciardo has a redbull homecoming tho, imo he deserves it.

[@LawVS]

Can't wait!

[@BreadBreeder42]

Imo, in a sport like F1, there shouldn't be a secondary team. I mean, this is the top tier of motorsport. AlphaTauri has caused enough issues already. Every team should be special by itself

[@LawVS]

I would feel better if Alphatauri were spun off to some extent and were not controlled by the same shareholders.

[@beautiful_muffin1577]

Well on Tost's mantra of a driver needing 3 years it still fits with Verstappen. As it was during the back half of 2018 when he truly grew into a proper force to be reckoned with smoothing out some of his more rougher edges.

[@LawVS]

True. He did well in 2017 but regressed in 2018 before surging back up again after Monaco. It's a shame that modern F1 is so risk averse and you're lucky to get two seasons or even one!

[@broyout3586]

@@LawVS Truth be told, he was pretty unlucky in the first half of 2018 too. Sure, a lot of it can be pinned on his taking on too much risk. But even then, it could have easily gone his way more than it did. And he only toned it down slightly after Monaco, and see where it got him...

[@lowi5630]

Im ready for the ultimate DU DU DU DU F1 year! Last years 19/22 was only his warmup... going for 24/24 this season surely :)

[@LawVS]

I see what you did there.

[@TheHidalgo99]

you did our boy dirty with that thumbnail bro you didnt have to do that 😂

[@LawVS]

But he's so torn though. Yuki and Daniel are good teammates.

[@TheHidalgo99]

smart to keep an eye on both of em@@LawVS

[@ruudkooijman819]

I think Ricardo now won't be able to beat Max. Max now is a lot faster than when he joined Redbull. But I think Ricardo is still the better choice. I think Yuki can't handle the pressure of being Max's teammate. That will destroy his F1 career.

[@LawVS]

Indeed. Daniel may be more consistent than Checo but not much faster.

[@theGoogol]

@@LawVS : I doubt Daniel would have the same problems with clean overtaking as Checo has. Let's not forget all the times in 2023 Checo ruined someone's race with a stupid overtake or got stuck behind a car for more than 10 laps... in the most dominant car.

[@ruudkooijman819]

@@theGoogol agree. I think Redbull is playing it smart. Let Daniel regain confidence at Toro Rosso (or whatever name they will have) and then let him replace Checo. Daniel won't be able to challenge Max, but he will qualify better as Checo and can fight whomever is driving behind Max. He won't make the foolish overtake mistakes Checo made. Less damaged cars and more points while Max cruises to another WDC.

[@JMRope]

Any young driver would love the opportunity to test himself against the current champion in the same car but personally I think Yuki is better off following Honda to Aston Martin. The Alonso/Stroll combination is not going to be long term so there will probably be a seat there in 2025 or 2026. Unless they think Max is likely to retire in 2026 as a 5 time champion no longer enjoying himself Red Bull should go with Daniel or even stick with Checo. I suspect Daniel has accepted he is unlikely to win the championship now so he would go to that team accepting he is a number 2 even if what he says in public is different. They could go with Lawson but better to give him a full season in the sister team first. If they do think Max might retire in 2026 or even 2025 someone like Leclerc, Norris, Russell or even Piastri might be considered but if it looks like Max will stay for several more years they will want someone to support him rather than challenge him.

[@LawVS]

I think Yuki needs to vocalise his desire to not take the easy way out and get any chance possible to be in the top car after his then four years in the second team.

[@henkormel5610]

Nice one 'ladder man'. Franz said a young driver needs three years when things didn't work out that great for Yuki.at that point in time. It was a reassurence to Yuki and Honda Yuki wouldn't be dropped soon. There was as you said also no one to claim that seat. Riccardo is a great asset to Racing Bull to sell stuff. At the moment I don't see him join the main team shortly. If he does the fairytail and the selling stops adrupt when he gets butchered by Max. Yuki in the second seat would be interesting to say the least. He is quick enough no doubt about that. The question is, is he flawless enough to show off his speed? Max and Yuki seems to get along quite nicely. Lawson and Max together could become a battle for dominance. There is a stabile head on Lawsons shoulders. Marko stress tested him firmly by denying him a raceseat for 2024.

[@LawVS]

To be fair he's been like that for all the TR years. Two years at least before outward pressure gets in the way.

[@parinceo]

S tier thumbnails 😂 Yuki is a better choice imo and maybe Liam Lawson to alpha tauri? As for Lando RB and Max can want him all they want but I don't really see it happening. Maybe we will see Lando moving from McLaren in the next years but I would say Lando would move to other team where he could lead other than racing under Max as a teammate since he would also want to race for the WDC and clearly Max is RB priority.

[@Ryzard]

One thing I find important about the comments on max never being able to fall off at the begining, is that people woule have said VERY SIMILAR THINGS about alonso and raikkonen, and while you can argue with the former it was true (with what we know now, and how close he is to having 5), with raikkonen, situations and time were not kind. While I am also of the mind that max is going NOWHERE, its important to remember that nobody expected DR or Leclerc to best Vettel, nobody expected hamilton to match Alonso, nobody expected Shumacher to push Senna (at first anyway). Things can change without warning, and things can change with extenuating circumstances. And in a sport like f1, it isn't often that everything goes exactly to plan for a decade. Do I think it's likely that max will be shaken or fully beaten on even ground? No. But is it possible his stock falls in the next 3-5 years? Absolutely.

[@LawVS]

Yes of course. Right now, Max is the best. However, I am starting to reckon that Oscar at his peak could give Max some trouble.

[@Ryzard]

@@LawVS that would be INCREDIBLY interesting, and I would love to see a season like that, or even a season like 2007, with a team like Ferrari, Mercades, or McLaren with a solid driver lineup and max chasing with a worse car.

[@Loki-sk7bi]

I need to see Yuki in Red Bull. I’m very certain he will do great,

[@LawVS]

I want him to become the most successful Japanese driver of all time.

[@legoferrari14]

Even if Tsunoda has a shot at the Red Bull No.2 seat, I personally think he has a better shot in playing the long game with Honda and jumping ship to Aston Martin for 2026, if not earlier should Alonso call it time again on his career or (better yet but less likely) something results in the ousting of Lance Stroll to make way for a more dependable talent. We've all seen how Red Bull Racing's second driver is one of the least secure jobs in F1 outside of Alpine and Yuki's had a closer experience to Red Bull Driver Politics than anyone beyond their Young Driver Program, so I wouldn't blame him if he wanted a more stable future to his career.

[@LawVS]

I see your thinking and it's the more solid bet but you don't throw a chance at the best car away no matter how good Aston wind up being

[@gangsterpenguin1440]

When you said baku 2018 and the Dan on today vs 7 years ago made me feel so old 😭😭😭😭

[@LawVS]

It made me feel old writing out the script.

[@mithrility1285]

always interested in what you have to say. you make great videos mate. sorry to be "that guy" but... 100k subs in 2024 easy

[@LawVS]

No worries, pal. Thanks for the words!

[@murraymaunder8754]

I believe that choosing a teammate for Max is quite a dilemma, and for top drivers to join RedBull to be pitted alongside Max is a HUGE dilemma. Career ending. Max is on his own level. Fernando or Lewis at peak would be at his level, today, nobody. Charles is mercurial and really fast, a Villeneuve of the earlier version. Maybe he may have the balls to take the bait, but RedBull wouldn't want the grief. Lando would come closest to a rival who would not upset th Max/RedBull bromance - for a while. I'm impressed by you, our host (LawVS), who has a maturity in his comments for someone who presumably wasn't around to see Ronnie v Mario 1978, Gilles v Jody 1979. Young gun v more well rounded teammate, you see outright speed isn't the main ingredient in WDCs. You understand. Max has had time to mature, he still has the speed of his youth and a very good mind developed over seasons with Lewis as the target. He's adrift now in terms of a serious rival, doesn't look like changing soon. The dilemma of rivals pitting themselves in direct comparison with the very best, the dilemma of RedBull not ending up with something like what we see at Mercedes. Lewis feels threatened by George and will do things he hasn't resorted to since Nico and Fernando who he treated without mercy.

[@LawVS]

Of course it is. Red Bull don't want a driver who will be as good as Max and will oppose him often as it would lead to conflict and potentially lost points of DNFs...but they also don't want a pushover with limited skill as that could harm their chances for the team title. It's a bind.

[@Rego1313]

Really not convinced Perez will be gone in 2025, it will depend on 2024 I would say. Sitting next to Max is very difficult, it hurt Ricciardo, destroyed Gasly and Albon and all three are very good drivers. Checo got a hit, but got up, beating Max often in that same car is simply not something I think is possible for anyone on the grid, unless they have the same driving style as the car has an incredibly lose end which many people cannot handle that easily. Daniel got hurt by a better Max and lost his edge, still hasn't found it and I doubt he will again (sadly as I think he's a great guy) and Yuki won't reach the right level I think. Liam Awesome would be an option I think, if he can remain standing next to Max. Alonso, Lando, LeClerc will likely not ever go there and of those probably only Alonso would be able to remain standing, the other 2 will break. Lewis likes to say he would be as good as Max in that car, but I bet he wouldn't even dare to move to RB if he got the chance because he knows Max would tear him a new one and his ego would go down the drain. I think if Checo just focuses on doing his best and just see whether that allows him to best Max a few times and works on his qualifying with the car opposite of his driving style, he will stay after 2024, simply because they would have a stable driver next to Max. His goals should be attempt to win, but be content with second. Tossing someone else in hoping they won't drown isn't always the best option.

[@LawVS]

I get what you are saying but it would take a Herculean effort from Perez to get an extension and considering two-thirds of the grid are out of contract, there is too much opportunity in the driver market to pass it up. Perez would literally have to be second in EVERY SINGLE RACE.

[@HPBrowningBoy]

RB wants to play it safe and will make a conservative choice. They are not happy with their stained image of a team that is burning up drivers next to Max. Daniel - Max chemistry is a proven concept and now that Daniel is much more submissive I think they will give him a shot. Yuki is still young with lots of years left in him. If Daniel doesn't manage to perform next to Max then they will give Yuki a chance. But it all depends on the 2024 season, they just haven't seen enough of Ricciardo last season to determine if he is good enough.

[@LawVS]

I do see your point. Daniel is the safe bet and a PR boon.

[@AdventurousNomad007]

Just wondering... what is it you look for in that attic space and why haven't you found it yet?

[@LawVS]

My street cred. I have yet to find it after 37 years.

[@andrewntoth1]

2018 was going quite well for Ric until he announced his departure ... If Ric were to make it back into the number 2 seat , I feel he would push verstappen quite hard (if he gets back there it means he has proven he is back to being the capable driver he was before mclaren - arguably he did quite well at renault)

[@LawVS]

He would push him hard but he wouldn't go too far. He would be simply happy to back in the pound seat.

[@harryboparai1091]

Its okay, ill accompany max in 2024

[@LawVS]

How noble of you!

[@ChuyR.]

Yuki has a lot of Kawaii points, Ricciardo might be very marketable, but a japanese ace driver is very marketable too and likeability is off the roof.

[@LawVS]

Definitely. And Red Bull would have played their part in aiding the most successful Japanese F1 driver in history probably.

[@katy4523]

I know things between Max and Lewis got spicy, but i think Max looked back to their battles and missed them in 2023. I think your arguments for Yuki are valid in firing up Max. Its Daniel's unless Yuki makes an argument that they'd be foolish if they don't go with Yuki.

[@notastone4832]

idk man, i think he just wants a challenge.. i doubt he cares who challenges him.. just that they dont Pit him into a wall :p

[@LawVS]

I think so. The Max of now is a lot calmer and has proven himself already. I reckon he would like the challenge, but I doubt it would ever get as vicious as 2021.

[@luciddaze248]

I feel like Yuki may be a thorn in Danny's side this year. It wouldn't surprise me if Yuki gets the promotion if the he keeps his 2023 momentum.

[@LawVS]

Definitely. It's his seat to lose.

[@ottojablonka]

Spot on Danny Ric impression

[@Parker--]

OK, somebody explain to me how Helmut Marko doesn't know what he's talking about, because so far he has competed in F1, Won Le Mans, set a record at Le Mans that stood 4 decades, recruited Christian Horner as team principal, recruited Sebastian Vettel as a kid, recruited a quarter of the grid or something, and recruited Max Verstappen and put him in an F1 seat as a kid, setting records that will never be broken and having the two most dominant seasons of any driver ever. Somebody explain how he has no idea what he's doing.

[@LawVS]

It's more like he is far too outspoken for his role in the team. He second guesses Christian Horner at times, gives far too brash statements and in this case, Franz Tost is more qualified to judge the potential of future Red Bull talent. There is no disputing his skill as a driver and past acheivements.

[@NemXX2]

I don't think Tsunoda is an option at all. He will likely spiral under the pressure. He is impatient too. Another point is that let's be honest, his sparkling personality and english skills are not enticing to say the least. That matters for marketing purposes. I think Perez and Daniel are the only options at this point. Not that Perez is great at marketing stuff either. 😅But, he has big sponsors. With that said, it will depend on what they show next season. But, I really don't see Tsunoda. I think even Liam has a better chance than Tsunoda. But, Tsunoda might become that more experienced driver to lead the team and prove himself a more mature driver.

[@LawVS]

I feel that Red Bull need to give him a chance considering he has been around for three seasons now and has done his time. Even if he gets replaced mid-season with a switch back to Alphatauri for Daniel in 2025, it's something.

[@daphnelovesL]

Nice photo haha😂

[@spawnofapathy]

I didn’t think Yuki would get swallowed by Daniel. I was concerned that Daniel wouldn’t perform as well as Yuki, who’s had more time getting used to the car. I do think Lawson is the more exciting and more promising prospect. Maybe Yuki hasn’t peaked, but I don’t think his ceiling is that much higher than where he is now. Would he do better in a faster car? Maybe. That RB doesn’t suit most driver’s driving style and Yuki may feel like he’s starting over.

[@LawVS]

The media were so keen to praise Daniel without giving Yuki a hope in heaven's chance.

[@RNA0ROGER]

I think Daniel Ricardo is a good second driver for Max, he is not even close to a genuine threat but still a decent second driver. I think a Liam, Yuki combo I think is the only fair way of doing things. Liam is a stronger driver with a better record, but I think there is only one way to know for sure. If Yuki can't convincingly best Liam then there I don't really think he could threaten Max.

[@LawVS]

I see what you mean. Daniel would be the more agreeable option since he won't be as good as Max but probably more consistent than Checo in 2023. But then again, Yuki would be hungry and fiery which is what Red Bull like in a driver.

[@24KGoldBacon]

Great thumbnail! Max as a goldfish. He'd prob still lead the race even like that....

[@LawVS]

He's just so torn about his ideal teammate.

[@annebokma4637]

Perez blamed the car and team too many times last season when it was clearly perez failing to have many people left at red bull to help him keep the seat. Riccardo will be in that seat within 5 races unless perez finishes on podium every time max takes the win. Liam needs at least one season in the second bull team. Ricciardo is liked and will get the chance to go out with 1 or two seasons p2. And become spokesman for red bull after that. Daniel now knows what true value being a red bull driver really has. Yuki is too connected to honda to get the seat.

[@LawVS]

I don't think Checo has to go that far but he has to at least not keep crashing like he did between Hungary and Mexico especially.

[@LawVS]

I think Yuki is aware of that connection and he's trying his best to prove to Red Bull he's with them as he knows that that could be the deciding factor against him getting the seat since Daniel ain't going anywhere else.

[@annebokma4637]

@@LawVS Yuki surely is aware and is doing all the right things. It will be enough to keep his seat after Honda moves, if he decides not to move too. But I don't see it being enough to get the seat next to Max. But then again if bull2 is allowed to copy almost the whole car, maybe he could be p2 in drivers 😁

[@aoife1122]

I have an inkling that Honda may have some clause that will see Tsunoda in the Red Bull for their final season together (it's either that or Red Bull may have to do with "GP2 engines" in '25, remember, they're still making the engines in Japan and RBPT is nothing more than a "badge" until 2026). No other bad driver driver enjoyed so much "patience" at Red Bull as Yuki, he's only there because of Honda. And early last season Horner was hellbent on getting rid of him, one way or another, such is his dread of that very scenario. Daniel Ricciardo? Only time you'll ever see him in a Red Bull again is doing donuts in Nashville or some such PR stunts.

[@LawVS]

Maybe but I think Red Bull will probably more able to sway the decision away from them given they are moving away from Honda.

[@aoife1122]

@@LawVS Well... if Red Bull is refusing to play ball, Honda's commitment to the final season of their partnership could be waning significantly, surely something RB and Max would like to avoid. Having a Japanese driver to win a race with their engine is such a huge deal for Honda (why Yuki's drive seems to be even more secured than that of Lance Stroll ;).

[@LuteFrontier]

The great LawVS will know what to do

[@the_untitled__]

That thumbnail is criminal 💀💀💀

[@LawVS]

He's just so torn though

[@Durfeldorf]

The first thing I see is amazing with his eyes as far apart as humanly possible , nvm that’s not even possible 😂

[@SalahEd25]

Well I don't that Ric is still in contention for that RB seat, it could be his last season in F1 for sure

[@JayQ2k]

I don't think Tsunoda is necessarily a good fit. I take it that he wants to be first driver at some point seeing his age. Daniel doesn't really have that problem. What has to be considered though is that with the re-creation of.... Racing Bulls.... is that that car might come closer to the Red Bull performance with Daniel and Yuki ultimately staying and Sergio extending. Inevitably you need a driver who doesn't get phased after being mulled with the hammer called Max (which is why I still favor Oscar). Few drivers have a mental profile that can deal with that as they all think they're number 1. Max has this "you want a piece of me, then come get it whilst still being laid back" mentality. Wisdom for Horner is gonna be required in the search for the 2nd RBR seat.

[@LawVS]

I reckon Yuki is fully aware of what Max can do and he will resist his vicious blows and counter attacks and I reckon Max knows this.

[@JayQ2k]

@@LawVS perhaps, but Yuki won't be first driver at Red Bull. So he will need to overcome so very much. Really an uphill battle that is. But maybe after a year of "insert name here racing bulls" and then really stepping forward...maybe. I do however agree with you that it's Daniels seat to lose initially. But in the longer run perhaps.

[@carobahena6134]

I can see perez out of the team before November 24, fired. But if that happens, RedBull would damage Mexico’s market, a lot. And if that market is really important for them, they will keep perez the whole season, clinching and grinding their teeth of course.

[@LawVS]

I reckon Red Bull will be smarter than that and see out the contract to hope that maybe some of the Mexican fans stick around. Not worth burning bridges with such a massive fanbase.

[@mynulkarimmahim5878]

The thumbnail lmao XD

[@felipemesquita7697]

The way I see it is that it's not any driver's fault, but the Red Bull enviroment. Yuki, Riccardo and even Lawson all have potential to be a Rubinho or a Massa to Verstappen's Schumacher, maybe even better. But the problem is, the team preasures them too much toward excellence, demanding more than they can give due to Max's raw talent. His talent can't be mass produced, each talent is individual, and must be nutured. I feel like RB doesn't get it, yet.

[@LawVS]

Maybe they used to get it but with the advent of a hugely bloated Junior Division there's been no time to fully develop the future F1 stars.

[@felipemesquita7697]

@@LawVS true.

[@sierralvx]

Dear god that thumbnail 😂

[@randallellison6421]

Good ole Helmut Marco, praising his young drivers one minute, and then literally in the same breath, saying he's not as good as Verstappen! I almost thought we were going to get another exciting episode of "WHAT'S HELMUT MARCO SAYING NOW?" for a minute there!

[@LawVS]

Poor Goethe, that must've been a little sad to hear.

[@randallellison6421]

@@LawVS the man just can't catch a break!

[@tacoflash71]

Then we got to look at the Formula 2 grid see if they can get a shot at F1 theo is hungry for a seat and FRed and Kimi want a seat as well making new lineup possible

[@LawVS]

Yes he is, but if Sauber don't pick him for 2025, I reckon he has no slots left.

[@tacoflash71]

@@LawVS or they pull an Oscar tweet

[@ertus306]

While other teams needs an additional supercharger to their cars to catch Red Bull, Red Bull only needs MAX MAX MAX SUPER MAX

[@LawVS]

The ball is in their court.

[@annegune5035]

Just by chance a, hypothetical scenario: In an ideal world (for some, for others no) wherein Checo does redeems himself in 2024 and it was a close fight with good results between Tsunoda and Ricciardo, do you see RB resigning Checo for another season? Do you also think AlphaTauri or whatever their name will be, will retain the duo of TSU-RIC for 2025? Especially when LAW did have a good audition and Helmut is starting to be vocal regarding that… OR,, regardless of the results, one will lose their seat in the end to give way to a new rookie in the ranks of RB?

[@LawVS]

I'd love to see Checo get one more year...but I reckon Red Bull are bored of him and want Daniel for the additional PR boost in the wake of Max dominating. It's sad and cynical but it's pragmatic.

[@freudsigmund72]

The only quality a driver needs to be a proper teammate for Verstappen is if they can handle a car that is very, very on the nose. If the answer to that is no, regardless of their race quallities, they will fail. And I have no idea whether any of the B-teams (I have no idea what to call them now) drivers have the ability to drive a very poiny car? I suspect Hamilton, Alonso and Sainz would be able, but any other candidates?

[@LawVS]

Folks would like Carlos to try take Max again but you're right. All second drivers have to adapt to Max's baseline preference.

[@xiNchainsx]

tbh i think Tsunoda deserves a shot at RB more than Daniel. Daniel had it's fair chance + he isn't the youngest anymore. Yuki is 23 and Daniel 34 years old and he basically has all his future ahead of him. Even if Daniel would get back to RB again, I think he couldn't stand the fact again that he is a Nr2 driver. Yuki matured a lot over the last 3 years. When it comes to Liam Lawson... It's wrong to judge someones performance just off from three races. Let him finish the year in super formula, then place himn at AT or whatever they are called then and see how he develops

[@LawVS]

He definitely deserves a chance.

[@rickvisser8296]

"Ricciardo would easily...." be destroyed. When Max level went up... Ricciardo's level went down... that close season will be a huge dump these days. I say get Tsunoda. He is humble, accepting a second driver status (did it too with Gasly). Norris is best option, but Norris is locked till the end of 2025.

[@LawVS]

Considering Lando would be Max's pick that would be interesting but he would also want Lando to excel at McLaren so team orders don't get in the way.

[@venukrithish007]

Oh how the saga changes in a few weeks. DR is now rumoured to be given an ultimatum and he's struggling against Yuki

[@albertusdrostable]

The next Max Verstappen is impossible to find, because teams can no longer afford to let their drivers crash twice every free practice in each and every weekend. So unless FIA drops the budged restrictions, that search is off. If Marco wasn't that madly in love with the guy with the grin, he would use his senses and give Tsunoda a full season of Red Bull and Lawson a full season at Alpha Tauri. Second driver at AT could be anyone under thirty...

[@LawVS]

Agreed. F1 has become thoroughly risk averse.

[@BotsWeekendCovers]

I would much rather see Yuki over Danny Ric. Much better driver in my opinion!!! Go RedBull!

[@LawVS]

I think the lineup would be very spicy and Max would have some fun.

[@morris-00]

good thumbnail lol

[@hadithelegend]

always a good day when i watch Law before sleeping

[@padresnews]

If you notice Its all about making max happy and not giving him any difficulties

[@LawVS]

Same goes for Lewis and same goes for Charles or any clear lead driver.

[@AlucardNoir]

I remember when a young Räikkönen was the hottest driver everybody was talking about. The thing about Max is that he has a good car. Hamilton is still one of the best even if I don't like him personally. Alonso is also up there, unfortunately - damn Schumacher beating Spaniard. The reason Max is the talk of the town as it were isn't just him but also his car. And 2026 is just around the corner. Let's remember that Ferrari hasn't one a championship since 2007. It's not enough to have one of the best pilots racing for you, you need a good car as well. Max is for all intents and purpose the new Lewis. But a few part changes and a freeze on development was all it took it dethrone the king. All this building Max up does nobody any good. Yes, he is one of the best pilots F1 has ever seen, but he's not winning because he's the best, he's winning because his car is. True, the car is made, more and more to his specifications, but he's still just one part of the equation. And all this fanfare makes it sound like he's unbeatable. He's as unbeatable as Hamilton was half a decade ago, and I think we all remember how that story turned out.

[@LawVS]

Indeed. It's the combination.

[@The_ZeroLine]

2 other notes: 1. He very well might not, but it’s way too early to say DR won’t ever reach his old form again 2. Daniel crushed the Hulk + Ocon at Renault (so, not sure what he was “getting his groove back means”).

[@LawVS]

I reckon he will be close, but I would like to see more from him in 2024 against Yuki Tsunoda. I don't think there was any doubt about Daniel vs Nico. Nico is solid but Daniel had that little bit extra.

[@The_ZeroLine]

@@LawVS Daniel may very well end up sucking. Just saying it’s too early to say he’ll never be as good as he was again.

[@jdbb3gotskills]

The only teammate that could take on Max would be a prime Lewis or Alonso. Champions in their own right that knows how to fight for the number 1 spot. I think a prime Vettel would crack under the pressure. Charles would put up a great fight too.

[@LawVS]

I think Seb did just that in 2018.

[@MrPleps]

I love how this came in my recommendations and now I'm learnt in Redbull and tauri politics but Im wondering what is het doing in his attic and why is he on a ladder?

[@LawVS]

It's to contain my lofty thoughts.

[@lordhenrywotton95]

The next Max Verstappen isn’t always the target. There will be one, but maybe it will take decades to find him (or her). Ricciardo, Sainz, Albon and Tsunoda are all very good, they could all do a job. Maybe do better than Perez.

[@LawVS]

I reckon the next one is Oscar Piastri. The guy has no fear.

[@lordhenrywotton95]

@@LawVS Amen. He's the real deal, I was talking about the Red Bull graduates. Piastri's junior record is unimpeachable, his debut season was great. I reckon he might be able to match Norris next season. If McLaren keep developing their car, both can challenge for wins too.

[@alpharaccoonz8626]

we need to put fernando and max in wec tgt would be so fun

[@LawVS]

I think they would have so much fun.

[@clintblacktiger8229]

nah max doesnt want a challenge because we all know he kinda is the boss at RB so he would definetly have a say he could tell them to go for Fernando/Lewis/George/Lando but that wont happen

[@LawVS]

I think he does want it since it would get bored for him at the front.

[@AlwaysChasingStorms]

Possibly Liam Lawson??

[@illiniarmory3142]

If F1 wanted to have the best racing, they would adopt a spec chassis and spec engine but they won’t. Too much money at stake. It’s technology driven. Which is why it has nothing to do with the driver. The driver is a distraction for simple minded fans.

[@LawVS]

Yeah it is. F1 is meant to be the showcase of Motorsport tech like the Hypercars of WEC.

[@illiniarmory3142]

@@LawVS indycar should adopt the exact race cars from super formula

[@an_elf_in_a_strange_world]

god i want to see yuki in a proper red bull that would be INSANE

[@LawVS]

I think we all would, it would be a bold choice.

[@brianhall1129]

I do agree with some of what you said but I don't agree about yuki I think his attitude and anger management issues will get in the way of his performance

[@LawVS]

That's fair enough. This year will be critical for him to fully mature and state his case to Christian.

[@mushie8447]

They should pu Yuki in a RB just for testing if he is capable of putting in some fast laps, he does it better then Daniel, so he deserves it more, on the other hand, Lawson would be the better option and leave Yuki and Daniel at AT.

[@LawVS]

I reckon he will have a turn in the simulator off the record.

[@Jrh-rp7np]

Anyone that goes Daniel beat Max on points in 2016-2017 is a hater…Max was very young and I know he had immense talent,,but he went from one year in F3 equivalent to F1 and he got thrown into a top team 4 races into the 2016 season his second year and yeah I know he won that first race but he still had a lot to learn.. and he still had the same amount of wins each season as Daniel.. and Daniel has really fallen off,, I think Liam looked better weekly then Daniel did in The Alpha Tauri..

[@LawVS]

Daniel isn't the same guy he was in 2018 and he knows it; but he will be good enough and consistent enough to be a respectable number two.

[@AajasAhmed]

I really think Redbull should give Lawson a chance at Redbull like Oscar is at McLaren rn and focus on the teams future. Max has enough experience and he'll be retiring within 2-3 years for sure. If Redbull is going for older drivers like Ricardo ( i love danny) im sure its gonna bite Redbull in ass later.

[@LawVS]

I don't think Christian Horner would make such bets anymore, especially since he's now more willing to look outside of the team again for a partner for Max.

[@remconoordermeer7015]

My money would be on old Toro Rosso teammate Sainz.

[@LawVS]

My chaotic energy wants thay

[@kqyto]

it's gonna be a ptsd experience for Indonesians hearing either max or yuki wins and their national anthem starts to play

[@LawVS]

Oh yeah? How so?

[@wj40014]

What's the model of your ladder? it's more stable than i'd say most of my friends' relationships

[@LawVS]

Oof that's a burn and honestly I don't know.

[@Alex.The.Lionnnnn]

Imagine a world where Lando is Max's ego check and holds him to some measure of honesty.

[@LawVS]

And Max is Lando's biggest cheerleader.

[@Bananananananannananananna]

Im interested about seeing max and lando (two really good friends) having a really tough title fight like 2021 and seeing if that changes anything between them. Would they not speak to esch other? Would they remain best friends? Idk

[@erdemeebilgee3584]

Have you not seen Yukia's 2023 season? Dude he has been COOKING. Scored points in the most ass car on the grid.

[@LawVS]

I did...I even mention it on this channel. Multiple times. Yuki gave Alphatauri crumbs of comfort in the first half.

[@gaptoofgranny]

No one can best Verstappen? Just wait two years.

[@LawVS]

I did find that comment a little iffy. Oscar could probably do it when he's up to speed. The guy knows no fear.

[@mazazoomzoom8838]

I reckon Riccardo to redbull 2025 and Yuki to Aston Martin because of Honda for 2026

[@LawVS]

I think that will be the boring, pragmatic version of events.

[@mazazoomzoom8838]

@@LawVS just facts tho why would yuki go to redbull is Honda is leaving?

[@ToxicAWOL]

Can’t wait for Max to retire, and then Fernando potentially retiring after that to try and get Max into WEC, and then MAYBE RBR makes a WEC team and brings them both on lol

[@LawVS]

Depends on what terms Max leaves the team.

[@kondjanegongo796]

Being no Max isnt that bad.... u still could be a charles, lewis etc. Wasnt Yuki kept to please the Honda Corp more than anything else? @LawVS if you wer RB Boss would you sign Daniel, and do you think he will REALLY settle for second driver? He is getting old and if given the chance he will run max off the road to win a title (He's one and only goal left in F1). I wouldnt cause i would rather protect my star driver from stress IF riccardo is any good and close to max.

[@LawVS]

I'd go for Yuki. He's done his time, he's promised his commitment to the team over Honda and he's steadily redefined himself. He deserves a go.