Verstappen Thanks Fans for 'Sticking With Us' After Narrow Title Miss
After a stunning comeback fell just short, Max Verstappen thanked Red Bull fans for their support through a "tough" 2025 season, where he lost the title to Lando Norris by just two points.
Max Verstappen expressed his profound gratitude to Red Bull fans for their unwavering support during a challenging 2025 season. Despite a monumental comeback effort, the Dutchman narrowly missed his fifth consecutive world title, finishing just two points behind Lando Norris. His message on the Talking Bull podcast underscored the team's resilience and the vital role the fanbase played in a season that saw them overcome a massive points deficit.
Why it matters:
Verstappen's public acknowledgment highlights the strong bond between the team and its supporters, a crucial element when facing adversity. After years of dominance, this season tested Red Bull's character, and this message serves to unify the team and its fanbase ahead of a monumental technical shift in 2026. It reinforces the "never give up" mentality that defines the team's identity, turning a painful loss into a source of motivation for the future.
The details:
- The Final Gap: Verstappen's stunning charge fell just short, with Lando Norris clinching the championship by a mere two points.
- The Mountain to Climb: The comeback was even more incredible considering Verstappen trailed by a staggering 104 points at one stage in the season.
- A Message of Unity: On the team podcast, Verstappen stated, "Thank you very much for sticking with us even in a very tough season... I'm very proud of how we, here at the factory and our fans of course as well, kept it together."
- A Well-Deserved Break: The four-time champion is currently on holiday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, unwinding after an intense season.
What's next:
The focus now shifts to a massive 2026 challenge that could redefine the team's future.
- In-House Power Unit: For the first time, Red Bull will manufacture its own engine in-house in a landmark collaboration with Ford, marking a significant strategic pivot.
- 2026 Car Launch: The team's new challenger, featuring this bespoke power unit, will be unveiled to the world on January 15 in Detroit, Michigan.
- This new era presents both an incredible opportunity and a huge risk, and the unity forged during the 2025 fightback will be essential for success.