Despite facing challenges during its testing phase in Bahrain, Red Bull Racing has confirmed its decision to stick with the newly designed floor for its RB21 car, ahead of the inaugural Formula 1 race of the season in Melbourne, Australia. The team’s decision comes amid widespread skepticism after the car did not respond to balance and setup adjustments as anticipated during pre-season trials.
The reigning world champion, Max Verstappen, has voiced his concern over the team’s readiness to compete for victory in Melbourne. The issues with the 2025 design were further underscored on the final day of testing when Red Bull continually switched its car configuration. It alternated between its latest floor and the original launch-specification floor, paired with varying nose designs.
Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko, clarified the team’s decision to revert to the launch-spec floor was due to damage to the new model during the day’s testing. However, he also hinted at broader apprehensions about the new design. Marko conveyed his thoughts to Auto Motor Und Sport, stating, “The [new front] wing worked well, the floor did not.” He later added that with the combination of the new wing and older floor, the car’s performance improved.
Despite the improved performance with the older floor during testing, Red Bull has decided to start the practice in Melbourne with its latest floor design. This decision suggests that the team has gained a better understanding of the car’s performance issues since the testing phase.
Verstappen, on the other hand, maintains his cautious stance, indicating that the team needs to work on further improvements. Speaking about the RB21 at the Australian Grand Prix, he commented, “I think naturally there is an improvement, but I’ve said it before: there are still things that we want to improve on and do better now.”
When probed about his expectations for a competitive race, Verstappen expressed uncertainty. He noted that while they are not the fastest at the moment, the season is long, and a lot can change in Formula 1.
Echoing Verstappen’s sentiment, Marko cited Red Bull technical director Pierre Wache’s remarks that the RB21, while more predictable and responsive to setup changes than its predecessor, is not yet the finished article. Marko acknowledged that while the car shows noticeable progress, it’s not yet on par with heavyweights like McLaren.
Red Bull, therefore, faces a season of intense work as it endeavors to address the weaknesses identified in its new car. With the season opener in Melbourne, the team’s resolve will be put to the test as it pushes to maximize the RB21’s potential.
