Red Bull is considering its options after Max Verstappen expressed concerns about the lack of a dedicated low-drag rear wing for better performance at low downforce circuits like Monza and Las Vegas. Despite this, the team’s technical director, Pierre Wache, indicated that developing a bespoke design may not be feasible in 2025 due to the budget cap and the ongoing resource commitment to the 2026 car project. Wache acknowledged Verstappen’s frustrations but emphasised the need for a careful assessment of any new designs, stating that not all alternatives will guarantee improved performance.

Verstappen, who secured his fourth consecutive title in Las Vegas, noted the impact of the team’s decisions on race outcomes, suggesting that without a suitable rear wing, they were at a disadvantage during critical races. He highlighted that the upcoming rule changes could influence how much effort is put into rear wing development for the remaining year.

While Red Bull trimmed its existing rear wing for those races, it ultimately yielded subpar results owing to the resulting compromises on car performance. Wache stated, “It is not because you have a different shape than the other teams that it is worse” and encouraged an approach that prioritises identifying genuinely advantageous designs over simply following competitors’ choices.

The article discusses Red Bull Racing’s strategy regarding rear wing design for the 2025 Formula 1 season, prompted by Max Verstappen’s remarks on the limitations faced in Monza and Las Vegas due to a lack of specialised low-drag wings. Red Bull’s difficulties at these circuits stem from a previous decision not to develop a dedicated design, leaving them vulnerable to performance loss. The team is now weighing the implications of budget constraints and upcoming regulations on future developments, reflecting a cautious but open-minded stance.

Red Bull Racing is reconsidering its wing design strategy in light of Verstappen’s concerns, focusing on effective resource allocation within budget caps. While Verstappen feels the absence of a dedicated low-drag wing cost them valuable race performance, Red Bull remains open to finding the best solutions without sacrificing overall speed. The team is committed to a thorough evaluation of their options as they prepare for the final year under the current regulations before transitioning to new designs in 2026.

Original Source: www.autosport.com

The post Red Bull Evaluates Rear Wing Options Amid Verstappen’s Concerns first appeared on The London Bell.

Adrian Newey reflects on his departure from Red Bull, stating he felt he wouldn’t be true to himself if he stayed. After an 18-year career with Red Bull that brought numerous titles, he left to face new challenges at Aston Martin. Newey was uncomfortable with the internal power dynamics at Red Bull, particularly comments suggesting the team could thrive without him.

In an interview, Newey elaborated on his decision-making process, describing how time spent reflecting led him to choose personal integrity over financial gains. He recognised his passion for design and engineering persisted, and he couldn’t envision retirement as fulfilling. This introspection spurred his decision to embrace a fresh start in F1.

Newey’s exit coincided with a downturn in Red Bull’s performance, culminating in poor results for both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. He expressed concerns about discrepancies in the car’s design and performance, noting growing difficulties in driving the RB20. These challenges were acknowledged by Red Bull’s technical director, who admitted the team hesitated to make drastic changes despite emerging issues.

As he prepares to join Aston Martin, Newey draws parallels between this project and the early days at Red Bull, where he also helped build a team from the ground up. He anticipates that Aston may have similar potential for growth and development, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

Adrian Newey has been a pivotal figure in Formula 1, credited with multiple championship-winning designs and technical strategies. His recent decision to leave Red Bull after nearly two decades has stirred discussions regarding team dynamics and personal fulfilment. Newey’s insights provide a glimpse into the challenges faced by engineering teams within the high-pressure environment of F1, specifically related to performance and team culture.

Adrian Newey’s transition from Red Bull to Aston Martin represents a significant moment in his career, marked by a desire for authenticity and passion for design. His departure highlights internal challenges faced by Red Bull, and Newey’s reflections underscore the importance of personal satisfaction over financial success. As he embarks on a new journey, his insights may influence how teams approach engineering and development moving forward.

Original Source: www.autosport.com

The post Adrian Newey: Embracing Change Beyond Red Bull first appeared on The London Bell.