Red Bull are now planning new upgrade for Max Verstappen at McLaren’s weakest track

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Red Bull’s intentions are clear as far as the fight for the 2025 Formula 1 title goes, with Max Verstappen making a late charge for a fifth consecutive triumph.

The Dutchman needs to win at every possible opportunity, with McLaren’s commanding lead in the standings already having taken a heavy hit. Without any pressure on his shoulders, Verstappen could cause some chaos, and it sets up a thrilling conclusion to the drivers’ championship.

Just a few months ago, the Red Bull were considered to be the fourth fastest car on the grid. Weeks later, having sliced the deficit to Oscar Piastri by 64 points in four weekends, they have a chance of making Formula 1 history again.

Tensions at McLaren are rising as they begin to realise just how dangerous their rivals could be to their hopes of a first title double in 27 years. McLaren know Verstappen is a problem and without their drivers working together, might face quite the headache over the next few weeks.

READ MORE: Max Verstappen attracts Lewis Hamilton comparison after ‘suddenly’ mounting Red Bull title charge

Red Bull are planning a Max Verstappen upgrade for the Las Vegas Grand Prix

Verstappen is the title favourite in the paddock, and his odds have shortened dramatically in recent weeks. Everyone is now on board with the idea that the single greatest comeback in the championship’s history might be on.

Jonathan Wheatley thinks Red Bull are kicking themselves that they weren’t able to find this new level of performance just a few weeks earlier, because it could have made a massive difference to the complexion of the fight they now face.

McLaren opted against continuing development of the MCL39 some time ago, believing that extra preparation for the 2026 F1 regulations would be beneficial while they had such an advantage over their rivals. Now that it’s gone, they might be starting to get a little bit worried.

Especially when they hear that Red Bull aren’t done with the development of the RB21 yet. According to the Italian edition of Motorsport.com, they’re planning to introduce further additions to their car at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Andrea Stella expects McLaren to struggle in Las Vegas, which could mean they’re in for a tough weekend there. It’ll make maximising their package all the more important.

READ MORE: Damon Hill names the surprise driver he’d pair with Max Verstappen if he were ‘running Red Bull

Why Red Bull will benefit from the recent rise of one rival against McLaren

Although Red Bull now look like the team to beat, there’s a chance that McLaren could fall behind another car if they fail to optimise their package.

Mercedes’ George Russell has shown impressive pace and consistency all year, and won just a few weeks ago in Singapore.

If McLaren don’t bring their A-game, then Red Bull will be in dreamland if Russell can get ahead of them. There might even be a chance for him to beat Verstappen, particularly in Vegas, where he was strong last year.

As long as they can jam a car between themselves and McLaren (whether it’s Russell or a Ferrari), they won’t mind. It just increases the chances of a fifth consecutive Verstappen crown.