The Formula One season is taking a new shape as the chasing packs have emerged stronger. The 2024 season started with a similar script from 2023, as Red Bull won five out of the initial seven races. However, after the midway point, the RBR momentum was hijacked by the rivals. As a result, once a dominant has won just two races in the last seven outings.
On the other hand, McLaren and Mercedes are enjoying a flawless run. Since the Miami GP, the Papaya squad has withered down the RBR storm, giving it a tough time. Meanwhile, the Silver Arrows have reignited the fire to win three races in no time. Thus, the question remains: can Red Bull withstand the pressure from its rivals, or will it break down, paving the way for a new winner?
Christian Horner Quashes Concerns Over Red Bull’s Car Development
The Milton Keynes-based outfit is under tremendous pressure. The squad is smeared in worries as it’s being attacked on every front. The dark days started when an internal political struggle broke out, which fragmented the team into two factions. Since then, the squad has been fighting with itself, trying to extinguish the fire. Moreover, it forced some of the key personnel to leave the setup. The first was Adrian Newey, the Aero Wizrd, who decided to step aside after almost two decades of partnership. Recently, Jonathan Wheateley also followed the footsteps of Newey and joined Audi (currently Sauber) as team principal. Therefore, the energy drink-based outfit appears vulnerable in the fight for the world title. However, RBR chief Christian Horner feels otherwise. Christian Horner has emphasized that Red Bull remains fully committed to car development despite the narrowing lead in the championship, now reduced to just 42 points by a rapidly advancing McLaren.
Horner also explained that the entire team is working tirelessly on the current car, as improvements are crucial for this season and beneficial for next year’s model due to the stability of the regulations. Reflecting on the season, he noted that Red Bull had achieved significant success, including seven Grand Prix wins and several sprint race victories, while leading both championships. However, he acknowledged that the team’s lead in the Constructors’ Championship has diminished recently, which is now a primary focus for the team.
He also addressed the challenges posed by the aerodynamic testing regulations (ATR), which limit their wind tunnel time. He said this is a normal part of the development process, and convergence in performance is expected as teams continue to push the limits. Horner pointed out the dynamic nature of the competition, with different teams taking the lead at various times, and mentioned that Ferrari has been less prominent recently but could emerge in the future.
“I Don’t Know If We Still Have A Strong Point,” Red Bull’s Technical Honcho Sounds Dubious About RB20
On the other hand, Pierre Wache, the technical chief of RBR, seems doubtful about the team’s F1 project. When asked about the car’s strengths and weaknesses, the French engineer said he didn’t believe the team had any at the moment. Therefore, the defending champions need to continue their pursuit of a better car as the rivals are on the verge of overtaking.