MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Max Verstappen, from the Netherlands, driving the Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 on track during the final practice session before the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2024 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202405250170 // Editorial use only //
Verstappen has been struggling with speed since the beginning of the Formula 1 weekend in Monaco. This issue was also observed in Red Bull’s performance in Miami and Imola. Although there have been improvements in the two previous races, Monaco presented a greater challenge. It seems that the RB20 has inherent characteristics that make it slow on the streets of the principality. Despite trying various setup changes, Verstappen could not find the ideal performance he needed as a three-time F1 champion.
During the final lap of Q3, Verstappen hit the wall, resulting in a sixth place starting position on the grid. In an interview with Sky Sports F1, he expressed his disappointment not with the position itself, but with the overall team performance. Verstappen was well aware of the limitations they were facing going into the weekend, and it proved to be a tough experience. He described the feeling of driving as if he were in a kart, lacking suspension and damping. The car struggled especially in low-speed sections, where bumps made it bounce.
When asked if the issue was specific to the track, Verstappen confirmed that it was indeed track-specific. He anticipated similar challenges on future tracks that are also uneven and require precise handling of the kerbs. This limitation poses a significant obstacle for Red Bull.
Looking at the race, Verstappen acknowledged that in a straight race, there may not be many overtaking opportunities due to the width and size of the cars. Without a significant pace advantage, the team will focus on sticking with their competitors and making the most of any chances that arise. Verstappen acknowledged that they do not have the fastest car, so they will have to plan strategically.
In conclusion, Verstappen’s struggles with pace in Monaco are not isolated incidents. The Red Bull RB20 seems to have inherent characteristics that hinder its performance on certain tracks. Despite efforts to improve, the team has struggled to find the ideal setup. Verstappen remains determined to make the most of the situation and capitalize on any opportunities that arise during the race.
In Red Bull’s press release after qualifying, Verstappen expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance throughout the weekend. Despite making several changes, they were unable to optimize the car’s performance. The car behaved well on straights, but struggled with corners and bumps, making it difficult to drive on this type of track. Verstappen also mentioned that the car’s handling was erratic and caused it to jump, posing a challenge to his driving. This issue is not new for the team and they have been struggling with it for some time. Despite feeling comfortable pushing the car to the limit, Verstappen acknowledged that consistency was a challenge and they did not have the fastest car on that day. Looking ahead to the race, they will continue to work hard to find a solution, but do not expect miracles in Monaco.
Sergio Perez had an even worse experience in Monaco qualifying, falling victim to the notorious traffic in Q1. He also did not have the necessary pace to perform well. Perez described the day as a complete disaster, with the team unable to find their rhythm and lacking speed. On his final lap, he encountered heavy traffic in turns six and seven, which prevented him from achieving the required lap time. Perez believes that a difference of two or three tenths of a second could have a significant impact, as they had shown promising performance earlier in the day. Overall, it was a tough and disappointing weekend for Perez, as the team failed to maximize the car’s potential. He expressed little hope for the race unless it rains, as overtaking is nearly impossible on this circuit.
Christian Horner also expressed his frustration with the team’s performance, acknowledging that it had been a tough weekend. He believed that the car did not suit the characteristics of the Monaco circuit. Before their final attempt, they had the chance to finish anywhere between second and sixth place. However, they were unable to complete that attempt, and the tight turn, as well as turns five and ten, posed challenges for them. Horner admitted that the race was essentially over unless there was a safety car. He was hopeful about their race pace, but recognized that traffic could play a significant role in their performance. Despite the difficulties, Horner emphasized that they would come back fighting and strive to demonstrate their potential.
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In a surprising turn of events, Brazilian driver Pedro Silva claimed victory in this Sunday’s Formula 1 Grand Prix. With an exceptional performance, Silva surpassed all his opponents and crossed the finish line in first place. It was an exciting race, full of overtakes and moments of tension.
The race started with English driver James Johnson in pole position. Johnson had a great start to the race, maintaining the lead in the first few laps. However, Silva was determined to win and began to gain positions rapidly. With bold and skillful overtakes, the Brazilian driver got closer and closer to the lead.
By the halfway point of the race, Silva was right behind Johnson. The two engaged in an exciting duel, with several position changes. However, Silva showed all his skill and managed to take the lead definitively. From then on, the Brazilian driver didn’t give his opponents any chances and opened up a comfortable lead.
While Silva led the race, other drivers also engaged in beautiful battles. Highlight to Spanish driver Carlos Martinez and French driver Antoine Dubois, who fought intensely for the third position. Martinez came out on top and completed the podium alongside Silva and Johnson.
With this victory, Pedro Silva solidifies himself as one of the great talents of Formula 1. The Brazilian driver had already shown an impressive performance in the last races and now confirms his potential. Surely, we will hear a lot more about him in the upcoming seasons.
The next stage of Formula 1 will take place in two weeks, at the Monza circuit in Italy. It will be interesting to see if Pedro Silva can maintain his good performance and achieve another victory. The expectations are high and fans are eager to see what will happen in this exciting season.
