The Las Vegas Strip Circuit might just be the ‘donkey’ in Red Bull’s room! 🏎️
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher has issued a warning to Max Verstappen and the Red Bull team, claiming that their car’s design could cause some unexpected issues on the upcoming street circuit. But here’s where it gets controversial—Schumacher’s choice of words has sparked curiosity and debate among fans.
Schumacher noted that the Red Bull cars have a peculiar behavior, describing it as jumping like a ‘donkey or a goat’. This quirk becomes a concern as the Las Vegas Grand Prix approaches, with the race taking place on the city’s streets, including the famous Strip, which is known for its bumpy surface.
The RB21, like its older siblings, performs optimally when set low to the ground with a stiff suspension. However, this setup might not be ideal for the Las Vegas track. Schumacher’s analogy to animals hints at a potential struggle for Verstappen to tame his car this weekend.
In a recent podcast, Schumacher elaborated, ‘Red Bull’s challenge lies in their reliance on the car’s floor for downforce. This requires a very low ride height and stiff suspension. The hope is that Las Vegas’ surface won’t cause too many issues.’
But wait, there’s more! Verstappen himself has previously alluded to this issue, using similar animal-themed metaphors. This suggests that the problem is not a one-off but a recurring theme.
As the championship battle intensifies, Verstappen finds himself 49 points behind Lando Norris. The Las Vegas race could be a game-changer, especially considering McLaren’s historical struggles in the desert city’s cool evening conditions, which affect tire performance.
Schumacher shared a strategy he employed during his driving days, setting up his car to ‘eat’ tires in low temperatures. However, he also cautioned against this approach, as it could lead to tire degradation. This delicate balance will be a key factor in determining the race’s outcome.
So, will the ‘donkey’ kick or be tamed? The Las Vegas Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling affair, with Verstappen and Red Bull facing a unique challenge. What’s your take on Schumacher’s warning? Is it a genuine concern or a storm in a teacup? Share your thoughts in the comments!