Controversy Accelerates: Criticism Hits Red Bull Over Dual Team Ownership After Singapore GP Fastest Lap Drama

The ownership of two Formula 1 teams by Red Bull has attracted new scrutiny following a peculiar incident involving the fastest lap

"It seems to me that the problem lies in the fact that in a sport such as Formula 1, it's inappropriate for a single owner to possess control over two teams."

Former Haas Formula 1 leader Guenther Steiner has expressed his opinion that Red Bull should not be permitted to have ownership over two teams, following Daniel Ricciardo's attempt to set the quickest lap towards the conclusion of the Singapore Grand Prix.

Ricciardo edged out Lando Norris for the quickest lap around the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

Norris could have reduced Max Verstappen's lead in the championship by another point, but it was the efforts of Red Bull's affiliate team, VCARB, that prevented Norris from securing the fastest lap.

Norris' inability to clock the quickest lap in Singapore implies that Verstappen can now clinch this year's championship by finishing runner-up in all remaining races and sprints.

Predictably, the decisions made by VCARB have drawn negative reactions from McLaren's CEO Zak Brown, who has reiterated his concerns regarding Red Bull's ownership of two teams.

Sharing his perspective on the matter, Steiner characterized it as somewhat strange.

"Discussing the quickest lap, Steiner found it somewhat odd how it transpired," he mentioned on the Red Flags podcast. "He believes the problem lies in the fact that in a sport such as Formula 1, an owner shouldn't control two teams.

The notion persists that there may be coordinated strategies not just within a single team, but across different teams. It seems we must acknowledge Red Bull's actions back when they acquired Minardi, involving Mr. Mateschitz.

Formula 1 faced challenges. Minardi was in a tough spot, on the brink of disappearing without external help. Since then, Formula 1 has evolved significantly. Looking ahead, there might be a need for a solution to the issue of dual team ownership, ensuring no one can own two teams.

Steiner believes it ought to become a significant topic of discussion in the near future.

"However, he believes the approach shouldn't be as extreme as stating, 'This issue must be resolved in the upcoming Concorde Agreement or commercial contract.' No," he further stated.

"The contributions of Red Bull to Formula 1, transforming it into its current state, are truly remarkable. Therefore, it's not our place to dictate how they manage their teams. However, moving forward, it's important to consider strategies to prevent potential issues.

The reason suspicion arose is due to Visa Cash App and Red Bull sharing the same ownership. Had this not been the case, many would have simply viewed it as Daniel Ricciardo's final noteworthy act.

"Suppose, hypothetically, that the Sauber achieved the quickest lap. Would that cause concern for anyone? Certainly not.

"The issue arises from the fact that it is under the ownership of the same individuals."

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