The situation at Red Bull appears to be growing increasingly dire. According to former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher, the team will not be able to resolve the balance issues of the RB20 this season, which could have significant repercussions. Schumacher anticipates further upheaval due to the escalating uncertainty.
At the start of the season, Red Bull seemed to once again be the dominant force, having won a staggering 21 out of 22 races last year. However, now, with six races without a victory, they are at risk of losing their lead in the constructors’ championship. Max Verstappen, who has only managed to secure a sixth-place finish, expressed his dissatisfaction with the RB20 after the race in Monza, even describing the car as ‘uncontrollable’. Sergio Pérez, who finished eighth, has echoed these concerns.
Red Bull’s Dominance Fades
At the onset of the season, Red Bull appeared to be the dominant force once again, having clinched an impressive 21 out of 22 races the previous year. However, with a streak of six races without a win, they are on the brink of losing their lead in the constructors’ championship. Max Verstappen, who has only managed a sixth-place finish, did not mince words about the RB20 after the race in Monza, even branding the car as ‘uncontrollable’. Sergio Pérez, who finished eighth, has shared these concerns.
Uncertainty Surrounding Red Bull’s Future
According to Schumacher, Red Bull may not be able to resolve the balance issues of the RB20 in time, potentially leading to unrest within the team. “There is uncertainty, more heads will roll due to this uncertainty and many will be dissatisfied. The pressure on the team, including departing staff, is enormous. Formula 1 is too fast for such problems,” the German reported to Sky Deutschland.
Meanwhile, Red Bull faces a personnel challenge. This season, the departure of the highly valuable designer Adrian Newey was announced, who will leave the team in the first quarter of 2025. In addition, Jonathan Wheatley is leaving for Sauber at the end of the season. According to Schumacher, these personnel changes all contribute to the increasing uncertainty within the team.
