Trailing Max Verstappen by 187 points in the biggest deficit in the top four teams, Christian Horner has given Sergio Perez his sternest warning yet as Red Bull “can’t afford” such a big gap in 2025.

Liam Lawson has stepped up as Daniel Ricciardo’s replacement at RB, with a clear idea to assess his potential to step up to Red Bull in 2025. Oliver Bearman and Franco Colapinto have already impressed for other teams, which could encourage Red Bull to take a similar chance.

Defending drivers' title-holder Max Verstappen continues to lead the way with just six races remaining, but having failed to win on any of his previous eight outings, has opened the door for Lando Norris to emerge as a shock championship contender.