Max Verstappen asserts that Red Bull has not been cautious in the development direction the team has taken on its 2024 Formula 1 car despite its recent dominance.
Red Bull has been the dominant force since F1’s return to ground effect aero in 2022, with the team winning all but one race last season as it retained both championships.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner expects several rival teams’ cars this season to resemble the dominant RB19 machine from 2023.
Despite aiming to “evolve all aspects” for this year, Red Bull has made some bold design choices that could potentially raise the benchmark once again.
The RB20 has changed its sidepod inlet shape to adopt an overbite style and has also taken inspiration from the Mercedes W14 with deep gulleys in the engine cover.
Verstappen, who achieved a record-breaking 19 victories last season, has warned the competition that Red Bull has not been complacent with its latest creation.
“I’m quite pleased with the direction they have chosen,” Verstappen told the media. “I saw the drawings in Abu Dhabi, the last race, and I was impressed by the difference. They have not been cautious, to put it that way.
“What I appreciate about the team is that we had a great package, but they took the opportunity to go all out and try to make it even better.
“Of course, only time will tell if it’s truly excellent. But from what I see within the team, everyone is satisfied with what they have achieved in the winter. However, we cannot control what others have done.”
Red Bull’s decision to implement ambitious and innovative changes to their successful platform may lead to unforeseen complications that could disrupt their progress. However, Verstappen believes in the expertise of Red Bull’s engineering department, led by the brilliant Adrian Newey, and is confident that they have not taken any risks that could have negative consequences. He stated, “There is no indication that we have made any mistakes.” Verstappen describes their approach as controlled aggressiveness, and everyone involved is satisfied. There is no doubt or uncertainty about the decisions they have made.
When asked about Red Bull drawing inspiration from Mercedes for certain design elements, such as the engine cover and sidepods, Verstappen maintains that it still reflects the unique Red Bull style. He sees it as a continuation of their own distinct identity.
Before the official unveiling, Red Bull utilized one of their allotted filming days to test their car at Silverstone. Verstappen and his teammate Sergio Perez were present to share the driving duties. When asked about his initial impression of the RB20, Verstappen described it as slippery due to the wet and cold conditions. However, he reassured that everything went smoothly.
The filming day served as a preliminary test to ensure that all components of the car were functioning properly before it is sent to Bahrain for further testing and development. Verstappen explains that this is where they will truly begin to understand the car and its capabilities. They will establish a comprehensive program and conduct various types of testing to gather valuable data.
Overall, Red Bull remains confident in their approach and the potential of their new car, despite the challenges that may arise. They have faith in their team’s expertise and are eager to continue their pursuit of success in the upcoming season.
According to the Source motorsportweek.com