Spanish GP set to test Red Bull’s bid for a dominant comeback
Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool
Spanish GP: will Red Bull reclaim its winning edge?
MONTMELÓ, Spain -- The Formula One paddock is buzzing with speculation that Red Bull might return to a position of dominance at the Spanish Grand Prix, but opinions are divided. Even Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, expresses caution.
In recent races, Red Bull's vulnerabilities have been exposed at unconventional circuits like those in Miami, Imola, Monaco, and Canada. The Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, known as the sport's best barometer for car performance, could be the ideal venue for Red Bull to regain its early-season prowess.
"I don't think it will be like the beginning of the season," Verstappen noted on Thursday, casting doubt on a potential return to dominance. This statement underscores the significant shifts in F1's competitive landscape in recent months.
Earlier in the season, Verstappen seemed unstoppable, notching up victories in four of the first five races. Only a brake fire at the Australian Grand Prix thwarted what could have been a flawless start.
However, Red Bull's rivals have since surged back. Lando Norris clinched victory at the Miami Grand Prix, narrowly lost to Verstappen at Imola, and Charles Leclerc secured a win for Ferrari at the Monaco Grand Prix. Verstappen did bounce back with a win in Canada, but rivals like Norris and Mercedes' George Russell felt they could have emerged victorious under different circumstances.
The resurgence of McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes has changed the dynamics of the entire season. Consequently, Verstappen remains cautious about Red Bull's prospects ahead of Sunday's race in Spain.
"I know that normally this is a track our car should suit a bit more, and we're excited, of course," Verstappen commented. "But everyone has been catching up a lot and is quite confident. Compared to the last few races, this should be a better track for us."
The Spanish track, known for hosting F1's preseason tests, features a mix of high-, medium-, and low-speed corners, and a long sweeping final corner leading into the start-finish straight. This varied layout can expose any car weaknesses mercilessly.
Red Bull’s recent struggles stemmed from their issues with kerb riding, a factor less significant on more conventional tracks like Barcelona. With upcoming events in Austria, Great Britain, Hungary, and Belgium sharing similar natures, some paddock insiders believe Red Bull will reestablish a significant lead starting this week.
Charles Leclerc shares this view.
"I'm not speaking on behalf of the team, but my personal opinion is that we will see a stronger Red Bull back here in Barcelona," Leclerc stated. "The track layout, normally, suits Red Bull, and the recent races involved a lot of kerb riding, which isn't their strength. With new parts in our car this weekend, if we can compete closely here, it bodes well for the rest of the season."
Norris, on the other hand, is optimistic about McLaren’s chances, highlighting the fine margins now separating the top teams.
"We've been good at all circuits so far, so I don't expect things to change much," Norris said. "With Mercedes joining the fight and how close it was in Canada, the difference could come down to small factors like tyre performance or setup. It’s just going to be a close fight between everyone. We've shown good consistency, and if we maintain that, we’ll be in a strong position."
The stage is set for an intriguing Spanish Grand Prix, as top teams battle for supremacy at a pivotal point in the F1 season.
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