Formula 1 News: Red Bull Optimistic About Solving Kerb Riding Issues with RB20
In the latest Formula 1 news, Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, is confident that the team can overcome its kerb riding issues with its 2024 challenger, the RB20, without compromising its strengths. The Milton Keynes-based team has struggled in recent outings in Monaco and Montreal, with the RB20’s aerodynamic platform requiring stiff suspension settings that make it uncomfortable on kerbs and bumps.
Speaking after Max Verstappen’s victory in the Canadian Grand Prix, Horner emphasized that finding a solution to this issue is a top priority for the team. “What was encouraging was that our sector three this weekend was competitive, even with the stiffness of the car rattling over that last chicane,” he explained. “If we can unlock that, then we will see it free up lap time.”
The World Champion, Max Verstappen, also shared his optimism about solving the problem without affecting the RB20’s performance. “I really think that we can solve this without influencing any other part of the car,” he said. “Today, it’s more like, what kerb riding, because I felt that was non-existent in the race.”
Verstappen had previously complained about his suspension “feeling locked” over the team radio during the Canadian Grand Prix. Horner clarified that this was due to the car being stiff and the circuit drying out, causing it to use kerbs more.
“All of it has to work in tandem, so you are pushing the aerodynamic platform of the car, but you want the car to ride kerbs,” he explained.
The team is working on a solution to deliver a better overall package, but it may take some time. In the meantime, Horner is encouraged by the progress made in Montreal, particularly in the final sector of the track.
With the Formula 1 calendar moving on to the next race, Red Bull Racing is focused on finding a solution to its kerb riding issues. If successful, it could unlock lap time and give the team an edge in the Formula 1 standings. As it stands, Verstappen remains in a strong position in the championship, and a solution to the RB20’s weaknesses could cement his position at the top.
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