Verstappen is currently 'focused on enhancing the speed of my car.'

      The arrival of Max Verstappen’s first child will not disrupt his 2025 season. Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko informed Kronen Zeitung that Kelly Piquet’s expected due date conveniently falls during a break in the hectic Formula 1 schedule. "The birth date does not coincide with any of Max’s races," he stated. "It’s anticipated for early May."

      Despite his recent win from pole position at Suzuka, Verstappen maintains that he is not focused on the championship. "Right now, my goal is to make my car faster. If we can’t improve its speed, there’s no need to discuss the title."

      Marko concurs, adding in Kleine Zeitung that "the car still requires more balance and tends to understeer too much in the middle of the corner, which Max dislikes." He emphasized that they are working on these issues, but cannot predict when improvements will be made.

      A significant turning point may be approaching, as new footage of McLaren's innovative 'mini-DRS' rear wing flex is circulating on social media, even shared by Verstappen’s father, Jos. "I’ve seen the videos, but I don’t set the rules," said the four-time world champion Verstappen, 27, in Bahrain.

      Adding to Verstappen’s advantage is the competition between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, despite McLaren clearly having the faster car. "We’re pleased when they take points from each other," Marko remarked with a smile. He believes Piastri exhibits stronger mental resilience, even though Norris is quicker on a single lap.

      Norris faced inquiries regarding Verstappen’s comments after Suzuka, where he suggested he would be dominating the 2025 season if he were in the McLaren. In Bahrain, Verstappen clarified he wasn’t joking. "I don’t care; he can say whatever he wants," Norris replied. "I would love for him to test our car, and I’m curious to see the disappointment on his face when he gets out."