In the run-up to the last Grand Prix of the season, Red Bull has changed the gearboxes of its two drivers. This was planned for Alexander Albon, but not for Max Verstappen.
The British Thai can have his gearbox replaced without consequences because he has completed six races with the previous gearbox in the back of his RB16. He does not have to fear a possible grid penalty.
The replacement of Verstappen’s gearbox will not have been planned until a week ago. He completed three races with his previous gearbox, which he got installed during the GP weekend in Turkey.
However, because he dropped out during Sakhir’s GP last Sunday, he can also replace his gearbox with impunity, even if it lasted less than six races. It seems strong that the gearbox of the Dutchman was damaged in the crash last week, but Red Bull has certainly taken it on the safe side and given its star driver a new gearbox.
In addition to the Red Bull duo, Carlos Sainz (McLaren), Daniil Kvyat (AlphaTauri) and Nicholas Latifi (Williams) will also get a new gearbox. They also do not have to fear a grid penalty.
With a view to 2021, should Red Bull rely more on what Max Verstappen wants from his teammate? This and more in the latest F1 podcast with Ruud Dimmers, Tom Coronel and Thomas van Groningen, which can be heard below.
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