Las Vegas GP: Red Bull faces wing woes in practice
Red Bull Racing found itself in a difficult position during the initial practice sessions for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where star driver Max Verstappen has the opportunity to clinch the world title.
Red Bull stuck with wrong rear wing in practice
Red Bull Racing found itself in a difficult position during the initial practice sessions for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where star driver Max Verstappen has the opportunity to clinch the world title.
In the second practice session held on Thursday, Verstappen only managed to secure the 17th spot, while his teammate Sergio Pérez finished further down in 19th place. The team, unlike its rivals, has decided not to use rear wings specifically designed for different tracks at this late point in the season. This decision left them with a rear wing that may not be optimal for the unique demands of the Vegas circuit.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport advisor, noted the challenge: "We don't have another rear wing, a smaller rear wing, as we see it on our competitors. It would be more helpful, for sure."
Red Bull had configured their car to maximize straight-line speed, especially important for a street circuit that includes a lengthy run down the iconic Las Vegas Strip. However, the team's struggles in practice indicated that they may have compromised too much in terms of handling through the corners.
In response to the issues identified on Thursday, Red Bull has made adjustments to the rear wing in hopes of a better performance going into qualifying, according to an inside source.
Despite the setbacks, Verstappen still has a shot at securing the championship in Vegas. He would need to finish ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris, an outcome that currently seems improbable with McLaren expected to show strong performance.
Notably, Verstappen had won the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix back in 2023, a victory he would likely hope to replicate as he aims for the championship.
Stay tuned as the battle for the world title intensifies on one of the most glamorous stages in Formula 1.
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