Verstappen Red Bull's Pace Lags, Title Challenge in Jeopardy

Verstappen: Red Bull Still Lacks the Speed Needed for Victory

27/10/2024

Max Verstappen doubts Red Bull’s speed, raising concerns about their ability to secure wins, while Dr. Marko worries about future developments.

The Red Bull car is still “not fast enough” for pole positions and victories, said championship leader Max Verstappen in Mexico.

Following Ferrari’s one-two finish last week in Austin, it was Carlos Sainz who secured pole position in Mexico, ahead of Verstappen and the Dutchman’s title rival, McLaren driver Lando Norris.

“We have the advantage of being under the radar,” remarked Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur.

“The discussion mainly revolves around the battle between Lando and Max, and the duel between Zak (Brown) and Christian (Horner). For me, that’s perfect.”

“Let’s stay under the radar and focus on what we are doing now.”

Indeed, while Sainz starts from the front this Sunday, George Russell is relishing the opportunity “to have a front-row seat for the Norris-Verstappen battle” that awaits him. The Briton joked that he might “take a bag of popcorn into his cockpit.”

“Very well, he can do as he likes,” laughed Verstappen.

The three-time world champion was simply relieved to have salvaged his weekend after a poor run in free practice.

“It was much better than expected but of course, it’s still not where it should be compared to the competition. I think we just managed to maximise everything.”

“I feel good in the car—it’s just not fast enough.”

Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko praised “another magical lap from Max.”

“He kept his nerves in check and delivered the perfect lap, but we must also commend the engineers. They found the right direction for the setup of a car that still only works within a very narrow window, despite the developments. And that is concerning.”

Dr. Marko Warns: Red Bull Struggles Despite Recent Updates Dr. Marko Warns: Red Bull Struggles Despite Recent Updates

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