Formula One is a dynamic sport where the finest engineers and physicists work together to innovate a powerful racing machine. Thus, while the results are decided on the racing track, it is impacted by the technical minds off the field.
While Red Bull was the leader in the car development battle, it has slipped down in recent times. However, it was inevitable as others figured out the key to unlocking the potential of ground effect. Meanwhile, Pierre Wache has opened up about the RBR’s approach to further innovations.
Red Bull Technical Chief Accepts Changing RB20’s Concept For A ‘Possibility To Take An Extra Step’
Pierre Wache, the RBR Technical Chief, recently shared insights into the team’s current performance and development strategy. He acknowledged that in pushing the boundaries of their car, the RB20, they may have gone too far in some areas. This has resulted in specific characteristics that are not optimal for the drivers. Wache emphasized that success in Formula 1 is not achieved in isolation but is relative to the performance of other teams. He noted that last year, Red Bull benefited from other teams not performing as well as this year. This improvement by their competitors is a significant factor that Red Bull must consider.
He believes the RB20 is a better car than its predecessor, the RB19, but there is still room for improvement. The team is working to enhance the car further to provide the drivers with a more competitive tool, aiming to make these adjustments by the end of the current season and into the following year.
Wache also mentioned that the overall performance ceiling in Formula 1 is not fixed. Teams often draw inspiration from each other’s innovations, and while many teams have been adopting Red Bull’s ideas over the past two years, Red Bull also benefits from the breakthroughs of others. This exchange of ideas is starting to drive the performance ceiling higher again, indicating a dynamic and ever-evolving competitive landscape in the sport.
Christian Horner Flags Return Of A Major 2021 F1 Issue
Christian Horner, the chief of Red Bull Racing, recently highlighted concerns about the current state of Formula 1 aerodynamics. Listening to drivers, especially during debriefs, he noted that the problem of “dirty air” is re-emerging, reminiscent of the 2021 season. Although not as severe as it was then, the increasingly developed cars are becoming harder to follow closely, leading to this issue. Despite Red Bull’s dominance under the current regulations, with Max Verstappen leading the charge by dominating nearly 450 laps in the 2024 season alone, Horner acknowledges that competition from teams like McLaren and Mercedes is intensifying. This competition has forced Red Bull to engage more in on-track battles, making the dirty air problem more apparent.
Horner pointed out that the Hungarian Grand Prix provided clear evidence of this issue, particularly in the middle sector of the race. He noted that even minor position changes, such as when Lando Norris fell behind Oscar Piastri in the final laps, were significantly affected by dirty air. This prompted Red Bull to undertake a detailed analysis of the race.
Despite these challenges, Verstappen remains dominant in the championship, leading by 78 points. However, his performance at the Belgian Grand Prix, where his progress was notably slowed once he reached the front-runners, further underscored the impact of dirty air. Horner’s comments suggest that Red Bull is committed to understanding and addressing this issue as the competition continues to close in.