Horner Promises Red Bull RB20 Upgrades After Monaco Struggles to Keep Championship Lead

Christian Horner suggests upcoming enhancements to address Red Bull's Monaco struggles

Christian Horner has committed to enhancing the Red Bull RB20 through several upcoming updates after facing challenges in Monaco this weekend.

Christian Horner suggested that Red Bull plans to enhance the RB20 through various upgrades over the summer after facing challenges at the Monaco Grand Prix.

This weekend, Red Bull has faced challenges, grappling with the Monaco circuit's combination of low-speed and uneven terrain.

Max Verstappen appeared to be a contender for a top starting position but grazed the wall entering Turn 1 during his last attempt.

Failing to better his initial Q3 time, Verstappen had to settle for sixth place in the starting lineup – marking his poorest qualifying performance of the year after previously achieving eight straight pole positions.

Commenting on the qualifying session in Monaco, Horner remarked, "We've faced challenges throughout the weekend. Our car didn't adapt well to this track's specific features. I believe overtaking Charles today was out of reach for us. A finish anywhere from second to sixth was possible. Regrettably, we missed out on that final attempt.

"We need to grasp the situation. The initial sector showed robust performance. The primary challenges were encountered at the tight hairpin, along with Turns 5 and 10 being the weaker points. Essentially, the race is almost decided, except for the potential impact of a Safety Car, etc. We're determined to make a strong comeback in tomorrow's race."

In the latest competitions, Ferrari and McLaren have implemented major improvements to their vehicles, a step Red Bull has yet to take.

In both Miami and Imola, it seems that McLaren had a faster vehicle compared to Red Bull, and in Monaco, Ferrari seems to be leading.

This isn't the inaugural instance of Red Bull facing difficulties at a street circuit, having encountered issues during last year's Singapore Grand Prix.

Horner disclosed that Red Bull plans to utilize insights gained from the previous year to enhance the RB20's performance during this season.

"He noted that the pole position time has improved compared to last year. He pointed out that the vehicles have become more similar in performance, following a design principle from the RB20."

"Now in the third year of implementing these regulations, we're seeing less benefit from them. The previous year was exceptional in achieving so many victories. We've taken what we learned and incorporated it into the RB20, planning enhancements to further advance the car over the summer."

Regarding the battle for the championship, if Verstappen ends up in sixth place while Charles Leclerc secures a victory in the race, Verstappen's advantage will be cut down to a mere 31 points.

Nonetheless, Horner has committed to avoiding overconfidence, considering the significant number of races yet to come.

He emphasized the importance of staying vigilant, stating, "One should never become complacent. The situation can evolve. Although we're currently leading in both championships, the dynamics can shift. We've only completed a fraction of the season, with numerous races and points yet to be claimed."

"We're not letting our guard down. Should victory elude us tomorrow, our aim is to secure as many points as we can and make a strong comeback in Montreal."

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