Daniel Ricciardo tries to minimize speculation that the VCARB 01 is just a replica of the RB19, stating that the new Formula 1 car from the Faenza team is not a “pink Mercedes.” The team, formerly known as AlphaTauri, had a strong end to the 2023 season, following a similar development path to Red Bull. Now, RB is seen as more than just a junior team of Red Bull and is fighting for its own goals. This has led to speculation that the VCARB 01 is just a copy of the RB19, similar to Racing Point’s RP20 compared to the 2019 Mercedes W10. However, Ricciardo denied this.
“We’ll find out in 48 hours, but I believe some people think that’s the case and that we’ll be like Aston last year or the pink Mercedes from a few years ago,” the Australian said on Wednesday. “Let’s wait and see. I would be pleasantly surprised if we were fighting for a podium. But as soon as we get the results this weekend, I think people will calm down.”
Aston Martin, formerly Racing Point, caused a stir when it revealed its RP20 car at the start of the 2020 Formula 1 season. The car was competitive and had a striking resemblance to the previous year’s champion Mercedes W10, which led to criticism from other teams. In terms of legality, it was later discovered that Racing Point had illegally used Mercedes’ brake duct design on its own car – a component that teams are required to manufacture themselves. As a result, Racing Point was fined €400,000 and had 15 points deducted from the constructors’ championship, and there was a crackdown on copied designs in general.
Ricciardo claims that any similarities between the VCARB 01 and Red Bull are within regulations and nothing more. “Obviously, there are certain components that we can use and things like that,” he explained. “But it’s not to the point that some people might think or expect.”
In the world of sensationalist journalism, the question arises about which position the team will place in the hierarchy in Bahrain, as Ricciardo’s denial of the lack of original design from RB eliminates the possibility of a podium. As AlphaTauri, RB secured eighth place in the constructors’ championship in 2023, accumulating a total of 25 points. Ricciardo’s teammate, Yuki Tsunoda, expressed his initial impression of the VCARB 01 during a filming day, stating that the car surpassed its predecessor. After pre-season testing, RB’s competitors anticipate the team’s readiness to challenge the midfield leaders and perhaps even the front line of the starting grid. However, Ricciardo dismissed the latter possibility but aims to compete for points throughout the weekend.
“After the tests, we gained some insight into the difference between us and the leaders,” Ricciardo commented. “Giving or taking a few tenths, it’s still a significant margin. Realistically, I believe there are some teams that fall into that range. If we can conclude this event with a Q3 ranking and some points, we’ll be extremely satisfied. However, I must admit that I am still uncertain and cannot definitively state that we will reach Q3 and score points.”
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Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo made an incredible move during yesterday’s game. The Juventus striker scored a spectacular goal in the 75th minute of the second half, securing the victory for his team. With this goal, Ronaldo became the top scorer of the championship, with a total of 20 goals so far.
The match was thrilling from the start, with both teams showing high-quality football. However, it was Ronaldo who shone once again, showcasing his skill and determination. He dribbled past three opposing players before shooting the ball into the back of the net.
Fans were ecstatic with Ronaldo’s performance and flooded social media with messages of praise. Many consider him the best player in the world and believe he still has a lot to offer to football.
With this victory, Juventus remains in the lead of the championship and is getting closer to winning the title. The players are confident and determined to continue with this impressive performance until the end of the season.
Ronaldo, as always, thanked his teammates and coach for their support and trust in him. He also expressed gratitude to the fans for their love and constant support.
The next match for Juventus will be against rival team Milan next weekend. Fans are eager to see another great performance from Ronaldo and hope he continues to shine on the field.
What does the future hold for Cristiano Ronaldo? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: he will continue to be a football legend and inspire future generations of players.
