Daniel Ricciardo, an Australian driver from RB Racing, participated in the Spanish Grand Prix of the Formula 1 World Championship in Barcelona on June 21, 2024. The Race Director of RB, Alan Permane, expressed confidence that the team’s extensive improvements for the race would not result in unpleasant surprises. RB recently introduced new parts and proved to be the sixth fastest team, occasionally challenging Aston Martin. In the pursuit of narrowing the gap to the top five teams, RB brought a comprehensive package of five performance parts to Barcelona. Permane believes that these latest developments will build on previous improvements and provide the expected enhancements based on simulations. He stated that no surprises are expected.
Permane also acknowledged that the progress achieved with RB’s new parts will be relative to the advancements made by the teams ahead and in the midfield. He highlighted that during the previous race in Canada, RB qualified in fifth and eighth places, with Yuki Tsunoda delivering an impressive performance in Q2. Permane emphasized the importance of continuously adding downforce and reducing drag to improve the car’s performance. He stated that this is the formula they have been following and will continue to do so.
When asked if surpassing their performance in Montreal would mean competing with the leading teams, Permane reiterated that their approach and methods would remain unchanged. He emphasized the importance of adding downforce, reducing drag, and making the car more efficient and controllable. Permane expressed confidence in RB’s ability to continue progressing and stated that there is no reason to believe otherwise.
Permane revealed that the latest developments are designed to complement the previous improvements made in Miami and aim to enhance the performance of VCARB 01 in high-speed curves. He explained that these developments are a continuation of the previous work in this area, representing another step forward in improving the car’s capabilities.
