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Red Bull Racing Focuses on Car Balance for 2025 Title Bid
As Red Bull Racing sets its sights on the 2025 Formula 1 season, the team believes that enhancing car balance is more essential than simply increasing downforce on its RB21 model. This shift in focus comes after a challenging season where the team lost its early lead to competitors following the Miami Grand Prix.
Despite Max Verstappen securing the drivers’ championship, aided by a strong start to the season, Red Bull finished third in the constructors’ standings, trailing behind McLaren and Ferrari. The team is determined to make the necessary improvements to regain its competitive edge in the upcoming season.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, highlighted in his column for Speedweek that the team’s strategy has evolved. “We understand what we need to do,” he stated. “The car requires a wider operational window, allowing it to maintain stability despite minor changes in temperature or technical adjustments.”
Marko emphasized the importance of handling over raw downforce, saying, “Forty points of downforce are beneficial, but four tenths on the stopwatch truly matter. Predictable handling is crucial for drivers to build confidence.”
Recognizing the increasingly competitive nature of the field, Marko anticipates that 2025 could present even tougher challenges, especially with the regulations remaining unchanged. “I expect a tight battle at the top next year, especially during the final year of a regulatory cycle,” he remarked. “As teams adapt and implement successful concepts, the cars will inevitably converge in performance.”
Red Bull remains committed to improving its performance and is prepared to face the challenges ahead. Marko noted personnel changes within the team, but expressed confidence in their ability to provide Verstappen with a competitive car for another championship bid. “We’re in a strong position and ready to give it our all again next year,” he said.
As the season progresses, Red Bull is poised to announce its driver lineup for 2025 before the holiday season, amidst rumors that Sergio Perez may leave the team following a lackluster year.
Marko indicated that the design of the RB21 will be tailored to Verstappen’s driving style, which any new teammate would need to accommodate. “We have the fastest driver in Max, so it’s logical to factor in his preferences during car development,” he explained.
“As long as we provide him with a competitive vehicle, I believe he will continue his journey with Red Bull Racing,” he added. “We will reveal the details about our driver pairing soon, amid various speculations and inaccurate reports of transfer fees.”
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