Chess
However, it is highly anticipated that the Dutch national anthem will be played at the end of the race. It would be a mistake to assume that the Red Bull machine is facing any technical issues. This is Honda’s home Grand Prix, and we can expect the team to intensify their efforts and determination to overcome Ferrari’s recent resurgence.
The Suzuka circuit suits the capabilities of the RB20 perfectly, with its combination of medium and high-speed corners. In fact, the team is ready to unveil its unique “capsule-less” aerodynamics, a strategy that Mercedes has clearly struggled with. There is much curiosity surrounding what this will entail, and Max Verstappen gave a hint: “The color will probably remain the same.”
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been facing constant criticism, with Toto Wolff adding fuel to the fire. Raw fish is a popular dish in this region. However, if Red Bull succeeds, Toto may find himself facing a humiliating defeat and embarrassment.
Meanwhile, rumors of defections are circulating, especially the possible departure of Adrian Newey from Red Bull to join a triumvirate composed of Newey, Hamilton, and Ferrari. In a recent interview with GQ, Hamilton hinted that his future lies in fashion and cinema. Just imagine Hamilton winning his eighth World Championship with Ferrari, driving a car designed by Newey. Apparently, the script for this scenario is already being written, with the provisional title “GOATS”.
On the other hand, changes are being made within the Alpine team, similar to rearranging chairs on the Titanic. It has been reported that the Enstone-based team will introduce updates in Suzuka. However, unless these updates are of mythical proportions, similar to the iconic Lotus 78, it is unlikely that they will significantly improve their position on the starting grid. We can expect them to move up from the tenth to the ninth row at most.
Due to their underperforming power unit, which is about thirty horsepower behind the rest of the grid, their prospects for success until 2026 are limited. It is impossible to make something mediocre shine.
