Max Verstappen finished fourth at the Chinese Grand Prix as concerns mount over Red Bull's early season struggles.
The reigning four-time world champion was unable to challenge the dominant McLaren duo, with Oscar Piastri taking victory ahead of teammate Lando Norris.
Verstappen couldn't even match Mercedes' George Russell in third place.
Instead, the Dutchman found himself battling with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, who finished fifth.
Max Verstappen finished fourth at the Chinese Grand Prix
Reuters
This result follows Verstappen's second-place finish in Australia, fuelling speculation about Red Bull's competitiveness this season.
Some observers now consider Red Bull to have only the fourth fastest car on the grid, a significant decline from their previous dominance.
Red Bull are taking urgent action to address their performance issues, with advisor Helmut Marko revealing plans for a crisis meeting.
"There is a meeting in Milton Keynes this week where it will be discussed when and how we can make up for the deficit we currently have," Marko told Sky Germany.
The Austrian added: "Until then, the goal is to score points wherever possible and as many as we can."
Despite the concerning situation, Marko remained defiant about the team's prospects.
"We are concerned, but it's not like we're throwing in the towel just yet," he said.
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Verstappen currently has a Red Bull contract until 2028 but despite the team's struggles, he has dismissed speculation about his future at Red Bull.
"I hear this all the time, but for me, nothing changes," Verstappen told Sky F1 after the Chinese Grand Prix.
The Dutchman insisted he remains focused on the present rather than potential moves elsewhere.
"I'm actually very relaxed. I'm very positive in my mind. I'm enjoying life. So every time I jump in the car, I just try to do the best I can," he said.
Verstappen has been repeatedly linked with Mercedes, with McLaren CEO Zak Brown even suggesting the world champion could join the Silver Arrows next year.
READ MORE: 'I was lucky' - Lando Norris admits fearing for his life at Chinese Grand Prix
Helmut Merko admitted Red Bull will undertake a crisis meeting in Milton Keynes
Reuters
However, Verstappen emphasised: "I'm not thinking about anything else, to be honest."
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has cooled speculation about pursuing Verstappen, reaffirming his commitment to current drivers.
"There is no conversation, silly season is starting early, we stand by our drivers," Wolff told Sky.
He praised Mercedes' lineup of George Russell and incoming junior driver Kimi Antonelli.
Max Verstappen has insisted he is calm over rumours on his Red Bull future
Reuters
"The decision we've made with Kimi and George is delivering sensationally and consistently," Wolff added.
Meanwhile, Verstappen is focusing on improving Red Bull's performance before the next race.
"The last stint gives us more of a clearer picture, we'll go through all of the data," he said.
"We have 10 days, hopefully we can learn a little bit more and be a bit more competitive."
