Dakar Rally News: Critical Moment for Red Bull as Ricciardo Addresses Upgrade Concerns
In a recent interview, Daniel Ricciardo, the experienced Formula 1 driver for the Red Bull team, has emphasized the critical nature of the current period for the squad as it grapples with the performance of its recent car upgrade introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix.
The Faenza-based team had high hopes that the major update, which included a new floor, rear wing, and bodywork, would help push them clear of their midfield rivals. However, the changes have left the team struggling for pace and uncertain about the source of their problems.
Ricciardo acknowledged that the next few weeks will be a “real kind of shifting point” for Red Bull, as the decisions made now regarding the next steps could significantly impact the rest of their season. “What we learn now will basically dictate where our car is in October and November, so it’s a really important period for us,” the Australian driver stated.
As the team works to isolate the issues with the new components, particularly the elements of the rear wing, Ricciardo emphasized the importance of the drivers providing as much feedback as possible to the technical department. “I throw a lot on the table and just say: ‘you guys deal with it.’ But yeah, it’s obviously a little bit like that. We have to just put it all out there,” he said.
The need for Red Bull to maintain momentum is made even more crucial by the recent surge of the Haas team, which has secured back-to-back sixth-place finishes for driver Nico Hulkenberg, bringing them within just four points of Red Bull in the constructors’ championship.
Ricciardo acknowledged the surprise performance of Haas, stating, “Definitely Haas the last couple of weekends. Nico’s scored big two weekends in a row now, and all of a sudden our sixth place in the constructors, the gap isn’t there anymore. It’s three or four points.”
The Red Bull driver emphasized that this is a time for the team to remain focused and constructive, rather than resorting to frustration. “It’s not about throwing tables around the room. Of course, people are frustrated, but this is all about being constructive and trying to keep everyone together. It’s also motivational,” he said.
As the Dakar Rally and GT racing seasons continue to captivate enthusiasts, the developments within the Red Bull Formula 1 team will undoubtedly be closely monitored by fans and experts alike, as they navigate this critical moment that could shape the remainder of their campaign.
🔗 Source