Red Bull anticipates a smooth victory for McLaren in Bahrain.

      "And it will likely be a convincing win"

      McLaren is expected to secure a clear victory on Sunday, as per Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko. While Max Verstappen achieved victory from pole at Suzuka last week, the conditions in Bahrain—characterized by heat, slow corners, and a demanding track—are more favorable for McLaren.

      "Max matches the McLaren's speed for half a lap," said team principal Christian Horner. "After turn 10, he falls behind."

      In an interview with Osterreich newspaper, Marko elaborated, "In hot weather, tire degradation is critical, and we are suffering from that. Additionally, we have other issues to contend with. I’m concerned that McLaren will win, and it will be a decisive victory," the Austrian remarked.

      During a discussion with the broadcaster Viaplay, Horner acknowledged that even Verstappen's remarkable current performance may not be sufficient to address the challenges they face. "It’s impossible to replicate what he accomplished last week regarding his one-lap performance and then hold off the McLarens throughout the entire race," he stated. "This track allows for overtaking. In fact, it’s one of the easiest circuits for passing."

      Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher concurs, though he believes Verstappen might still find himself out of contention for the championship lead, at least for the time being. "He’s pushing his limits while the two McLaren drivers make errors, competing against each other, obstructing one another, and ultimately taking points from each other," he told f1-insider.com. "This dynamic, and only this, could ultimately assist Verstappen. On tracks like Bahrain, the McLaren has the upper hand. Even Verstappen is unlikely to win there."