Red Bull Racing has admitted that inaccuracies in their wind tunnel simulations are contributing to the current performance issues with their Formula 1 car. The team hopes that upcoming upgrades will improve the confidence of drivers Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda.
Despite Max Verstappen being close to the top of the driver standings, trailing Lando Norris by a small margin, the Red Bull car has not matched the pace of leading teams like McLaren. Verstappen`s victory in Suzuka was achieved through exceptional driving rather than sheer car speed.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull`s advisor, has expressed significant concern about Verstappen`s future with the team. Verstappen`s contract includes performance clauses that could allow him to leave before his contract ends in 2028 if the car`s performance doesn`t improve.
In the Bahrain Grand Prix, Verstappen finished sixth, a considerable 34 seconds behind winner Oscar Piastri, even with a late safety car period.
Christian Horner, Red Bull team principal, stated that they understand the problems but are struggling because the data from their simulation tools does not align with what they are observing on the track. This discrepancy is the key issue they need to resolve.
Horner explained that the wind tunnel is not accurately replicating on-track conditions, leading to a mismatch between simulation predictions and real-world performance. He emphasized the need to understand why their tools are not reflecting track data and to resolve this disconnect.
Red Bull is expecting a new wind tunnel in 2027 but will rely on the current facility for the next two years. Horner noted that this situation results in confusion between what their tools indicate and the actual data collected from the track.
He further elaborated that the team needs to identify the car`s weaknesses, particularly as performance gains are minimal under the current regulations. The limitations of their current wind tunnel in accurately simulating these marginal gains are becoming apparent.
Red Bull`s challenges include managing tire wear compared to competitors like McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari. Additionally, the car`s handling in corners does not fully match Verstappen`s preferred driving style. These factors prevent Verstappen and Tsunoda from pushing the car to its maximum potential without causing excessive tire degradation and losing speed.
Horner reiterated that the problem is understood, and the focus is now on implementing effective solutions. The team is working to improve the car`s entry and mid-corner performance to provide Verstappen with the necessary grip and confidence to maintain speed through corners. This issue is primarily aerodynamic, requiring adjustments to deliver the needed grip and balance to “calm the car down.”
