Red Bull Eyes Continued Momentum After Baku Performance, Cautious of McLaren Threat
Baku, Azerbaijan – Red Bull Racing is cautiously optimistic about maintaining the improved pace demonstrated in Baku, following a challenging 2023 season and a especially difficult Italian Grand Prix at monza. While acknowledging McLaren’s consistent front-running speed, Red Bull hopes to consistently unlock the RB21’s potential across a wider range of circuits.
The team’s performance in Baku, where Sergio Perez contended for a podium finish before a late-race collision with Carlos Sainz, and Oscar Piastri secured his second win, highlighted a resurgence for Red Bull. This came after a difficult 2023 where they “suffered tremendously in Monza,” according to a team representative. The Baku result, coupled with a “slightly modified approach,” has instilled optimism, tho the team doesn’t anticipate replicating the unique conditions that favored them in Monza.
Despite this, Red Bull is tempering expectations. “It is clear that McLaren is very fast. They are always at the forefront,” a team spokesperson stated. “But compared to last year it was vital for us to return strongly because we suffered tremendously in Monza.” The team is focused on applying lessons learned from both Zandvoort and Monza to consistently find the optimal operating window for the RB21, regardless of track characteristics.
Looking ahead, Red Bull views circuits similar to Baku as favorable, while acknowledging Singapore – the only race they haven’t yet won – presents a greater challenge due to its slower nature. “With regard to the Baku circuit and those rapid circuits, I am very optimistic,” the spokesperson added. “Singapore is the only race that we have not yet won, and it is indeed usually more difficult for us on slow circuits.But I think everything is possible now in this period.”
Ultimately, Red Bull’s ability to translate this improved performance into consistent success hinges on track conditions and the continued strength of McLaren, but the team believes it can become a more frequent contender.
