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Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are dealing with the same frustration at their teams

Originally posted on HITC | By David Comerford | Last updated Jul 12, 2025 9:40 AM ET

Red Bull’s next big decision will be what happens with Max Verstappen following Christian Horner’s dismissal. They’ll be hoping that the new direction is enough to keep their star driver in place.

There’s been talk that Verstappen played a role in Horner’s departure, possibly using interest from Mercedes as a bargaining chip.

While there are different accounts of how much influence he actually had, what’s certain is that Verstappen hasn’t fully committed to Red Bull beyond 2026. His contract, which runs until 2028, does include exit options.

Halfway through the 2025 season, Verstappen finds himself 69 points behind Oscar Piastri and has missed the podium in seven of the first 12 races.

Max Verstappen feels that Red Bull aren’t adequately listening to him

Mekies has already agreed to relinquish some power relative to his predecessor. This will please the superstar driver, who felt Horner was overstretched.

But according to Fox Sports Australia, one of Verstappen’s main ‘gripes’ is his perception that Red Bull haven’t taken his feedback ‘seriously enough’. If they’d truly listened to him, perhaps they wouldn’t be in this ‘hole’.

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Verstappen may seek assurances from Mekies that this issue will be addressed. He’s certainly earned the right to guide car development after winning four straight titles.

Lewis Hamilton looking to play a bigger role in Ferrari’s direction

Even with Red Bull’s struggles, Verstappen has still been one of the top performers this season, if not the number one. He’s scored 165 of Red Bull’s 172 points.

Hamilton has had a tougher year at Ferrari, though there have been signs of progress recently. But both drivers are dealing with similar frustrations.

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The seven-time champion has been trying to shape Ferrari’s approach before race weekends, drawing on his vast experience. But the team has often stuck to its own methods instead.

It’s also emerged that Hamilton wants Ferrari to adjust their overall approach for 2026, advocating for a more measured direction. However, there appears to be some resistance internally.

Leclerc’s driver coach is reportedly backing Hamilton’s suggestions. The final decision rests with Fred Vasseur on how much influence he’ll allow his star signing to have.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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