In response to swirling rumors within the F1 community, Red Bull has categorically dismissed conjecture that its RB21 vehicle is set to undergo substantial alterations on the final day of the Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain.
The revelation came as a surprise for many, considering that the 2025 car was unveiled with a design strikingly similar to its predecessor, the RB20. Notably, the RB20 had been plagued with issues in the last season, particularly following mid-season upgrades that led to balance problems, making it more challenging to handle.
Such issues had fueled speculation that Red Bull might be planning to implement significant upgrades to the RB21, changing its appearance markedly from its initial design. However, Red Bull’s Technical Director, Pierre Wache, has insisted that any alterations will be far from drastic.
In an interview with PlanetF1.com, Wache stated, “No, it will not be radically different.” He further explained that while some parts would be evaluated and minor revisions made based on their manufacturing capabilities, these changes would not drastically alter the car.
Wache’s statement falls in line with comments from Red Bull’s team boss, Christian Horner, who has also asserted that the car used in testing will closely resemble the one that will race in the season opener in Australia. “It’s basically the car that we will start the season with,” Horner declared to Motorsport Week and other media outlets.
However, the pursuit of marginal improvements under the current regulations continues. The ultimate challenge, according to Wache, is to ensure the drivers can unlock the potential that the vehicle offers.
When questioned about the performance headroom available under the current ground effect regulations, Wache admitted, “I don’t know the ceiling…What we can find in terms of performance, and maybe not the ceiling, is how we can develop the car so that the driver can.”
Red Bull remains steadfast in its mission to provide its drivers with a more predictable car with a broader operating window, even as it navigates the challenges of finding performance within the regulatory box.
So, despite rife speculation, Red Bull fans should not expect any earth-shattering changes to the RB21 at pre-season testing. The company is confident it has addressed the issues that plagued the 2024 car and is ready to make its mark in the 2025 F1 race.
