In a surprising twist at the Monza circuit, Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, expressed concern over Max Verstappen’s campaign for a fourth world championship. Despite Red Bull dominating the early 2024 Formula 1 season, McLaren’s incredible resurgence threatened to derail Verstappen’s championship hopes.
Red Bull’s Early Dominance
The 2024 season began with Red Bull’s RB20 car setting the pace. It seemed inevitable that Verstappen and Red Bull would carry forward the dominance of 2023, where Verstappen clinched 19 out of 22 races. However, by the Italian Grand Prix in September, things were starting to look shaky.
The McLaren Challenge
McLaren’s fortunes changed dramatically post-Miami Grand Prix in May. Their strategic upgrade package transformed their car dynamics, culminating in Lando Norris securing his first-ever grand prix victory. This newfound pace caught Red Bull off-guard, initiating a formidable challenge to Red Bull’s supremacy.
Red Bull’s Troubles in Miami and Beyond
Red Bull’s challenges began in Miami, where car balance issues became apparent. While Verstappen managed to secure victories in three out of the subsequent four races, it marked the start of a challenging phase with Red Bull experiencing a 10-race winless streak. Meanwhile, McLaren continued its momentum, followed by Ferrari and Mercedes, who all tasted victory during this period.
Anxious Moments in Monza
Monza proved pivotal. Red Bull’s struggles were laid bare, leading to their worst weekend performance of the season. Horner admitted this was when he seriously feared Verstappen’s title campaign was slipping away, as McLaren had already established a lead in the constructors’ championship by then.
Verstappen’s Perspective
Verstappen recently secured his fourth consecutive drivers’ championship in Las Vegas, but Monza remains a haunting memory. According to Horner, Verstappen himself admitted that throughout 70 percent of the season, Red Bull didn’t have the fastest car. This mirrors the sentiments felt within the team, highlighting the challenges faced this year.
As the championship draws to a close with McLaren holding a sizable lead, the racing world watches to see how Red Bull adapts for the remaining two races of the season.
