The Red Bull Formula 1 team has disclosed that inaccuracies in their wind tunnel simulations are contributing to the current issues with their car`s performance. The team hopes that upcoming upgrades will help drivers Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda feel more confident with the RB21 car.
Despite Max Verstappen being only a few points behind the championship leader, Lando Norris, the Red Bull car has not matched the pace of leading teams like McLaren. Verstappen`s victory in the Suzuka race was achieved through exceptional driving rather than clear car superiority.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull`s advisor, has voiced significant concern about Verstappen`s future with the team. Verstappen`s contract includes performance-based clauses that could allow him to leave before his contract ends in 2028.
In the Bahrain Grand Prix, Verstappen finished sixth, a significant 34 seconds behind the winner, Oscar Piastri, even with a late safety car period.
Christian Horner, Red Bull`s team principal, explained that the team understands the problems but the challenge lies in finding solutions. He pointed out a discrepancy between their simulation tools and real-world track performance. The data from the wind tunnel and simulations are not accurately reflecting what is happening on the track.
“We need to understand why our tools are not showing us what we are seeing on the track,” Horner stated. He emphasized the need to resolve this disconnect to improve the car`s performance.
Horner also mentioned that the wind tunnel is not correctly replicating on-track conditions, leading to inconsistencies between simulation data and actual performance. He described it as a “mishmash” between their predicted data and what they observe during races.
Red Bull is set to have a new wind tunnel in 2027 but must rely on their current facilities for the next two years. This discrepancy between simulation and reality is causing confusion and difficulty in developing effective car upgrades.
According to Horner, the team needs to identify the car`s weaknesses and admitted their current wind tunnel is struggling in crucial areas, especially as they are in a phase of regulations where performance gains are minimal.
Red Bull`s challenges include managing tire wear compared to competitors like McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari. Additionally, Verstappen desires a car that turns into corners more sharply, which better suits his driving style. These factors limit Verstappen and Tsunoda`s ability to push the car to its maximum potential without compromising tire durability and speed.
Horner clarified that the team is aware of the problem and is focused on implementing solutions, particularly concerning the car`s entry and mid-corner handling. The goal is to provide Verstappen with the necessary grip and confidence to maximize his speed when entering corners. This issue is primarily aerodynamic, requiring adjustments to deliver the needed grip and balance to “calm the car down”.
