Red Bull’s RB21, the team’s latest creation, has been deemed not sufficiently speedy for a winning start to the season, according to Pierre Wache, the technical director. His assessment comes after a three-day testing session at the Bahrain International Circuit, where Red Bull completed a mere 304 laps, the lowest of all the teams. In a twist of fate, Red Bull’s dominance faded in 2024, leaving them without a victory in 10 races at one point.
Wache indicated that the team has a steep path to climb before the Australian Grand Prix. He pinpointed McLaren and Ferrari as teams better positioned for a victorious run. He voiced his concerns saying, “At the moment it doesn’t look like we are quick enough, but after we will see. It looks like McLaren and Ferrari are quicker.”
The Bahrain testing session was marked by atypical weather conditions, including a chilly, rain-impacted second day. Despite the challenges, Wache believes the team has gained some understanding of the RB21’s potential and how it responds to different setups.
Wache revealed that the RB21 did not perform as expected in some instances, prompting further investigation and development. “It was not as smooth a test as we expected and the team expected, but it is better to find some problems here than later down the line,” he explained.
However, he confirmed that the journey is not discouraging; it’s just that the progress isn’t as substantial as anticipated. Wache emphasized the necessity to further understand and maximize the performance of the RB21, stating, “We have some feedback that is as we expect, in terms of how the car reacts and in terms of balance. But I think we still have work to do on how to use the potential of it.”
While Red Bull had a disappointing 2024, they are determined to bounce back in 2025. Max Verstappen, who clinched his fourth consecutive Drivers’ title despite the team’s struggles, will be key in their revival efforts. His feedback at the Italian Grand Prix was instrumental in sparking the team’s recovery.
Verstappen will have a new teammate, Liam Lawson, in 2025. Lawson, a promising talent from Racing Bulls, steps in following the departure of Sergio Perez. The new duo will be crucial in Red Bull’s quest to return to the F1 summit and reclaim their position in the Constructors’ Championship.
Despite the initial setbacks, the Red Bull team remains optimistic and committed to uncovering the full potential of the RB21. Their efforts in the upcoming season will be a testament to their resilience and determination to succeed.
