Max Verstappen had been leading the world championship since the inception of the current ground effect era in 2022.

Max Verstappen has admitted that Red Bull's grip issues will be "hard to fix" at the Australian Grand Prix as the reigning four-time world champion prepares for a difficult opening weekend of the season.

Max Verstappen will start the Australian Grand Prix in fifth and it's claimed the Red Bull driver has made a demand of the team's social media department.

After struggling with setup issues through Australian Grand Prix practice, Max Verstappen was surprised by his Red Bull car's performance on Saturday as the Formula One defending champion took third place in qualifying for the season-opening race.

Formula 1 reigning champion Max Verstappen has reportedly 'declined' to participate in TikTok videos for Red Bull's social media platforms. The 27-year-old Dutchman, known for his light-hearted content and meme reenactments, has allegedly suggested that new team-mate Liam Lawson should take over these duties.

Lewis Hamilton has completed his sensational switch from Mercedes to Ferrari ahead of the 2025 F1 season - and he is paid handsomely to suit up in red

Formula 1 defending champion Max Verstappen downplayed Red Bull's chances at Sunday's season-opening Australian Grand Prix, saying the car is slower than their rivals and still working through some issues.

Verstappen was not the only Red Bull struggler, as his new team-mate Liam Lawson was a lowly 17th in Friday's second session, more than a second behind leader Leclerc. The Kiwi will be under pressure to at least cling onto Verstappen's coat-tails this season after earning a rapid promotion from Racing Bulls.