F1
Mercedes’ Allison Claims Red Bull’s ‘Upgrade’ is a Step Backward Amid Rising Competition
Mercedes' James Allison suggests that Red Bull's recent upgrade might actually be a step in the wrong direction.
Mercedes F1’s technical director, James Allison, has hinted that Red Bull's recent difficulties might be due to an upgrade package that failed to deliver the expected improvements.
Red Bull had a strong beginning to the season, securing victories in four out of the first five races. However, they have managed to win only one of the last three races, facing growing competition from their closest rivals, Ferrari and McLaren.
After being defeated by Lando Norris in Miami, Max Verstappen bounced back with a victory at Imola, though he faced intense pressure from the McLaren driver towards the end. Subsequently, Red Bull experienced their most challenging weekend of the season during the Monaco Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen managed to secure only a sixth-place finish due to his team struggling with ride issues. This allowed Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to secure his first-ever win in Monaco, cutting Verstappen's championship lead to 31 points.
Allison believes that Red Bull's recent decline in performance might be linked to a new car update that has actually worsened their performance.
Allison mentioned to the media, including ESPN in Montreal, that he believes they will become useful again once a reasonable variety of cornering speeds is achieved.
"It seems their upgrade actually turned out to be a downgrade, so let's hope it causes them significant trouble."
"This complicates life since once you lose faith in your tools, you begin to retrace your steps and waste time. Time is your greatest ally, and squandering it is your biggest adversary."
When questioned about whether it was thrilling for Mercedes to witness the difficulties faced by the championship frontrunners, Allison replied, “In this sport, everyone takes pleasure in the hardships of others.”
Mercedes unveiled a redesigned front wing in Monaco and have added more modifications in Montreal this weekend in an effort to enhance the W15's inconsistent performance in both high-speed and low-speed corners.
During Friday's second practice session, George Russell clocked the second-best time when the track conditions were at their best, while in a rain-affected first practice, Lewis Hamilton secured the fourth spot.
"At present, our situation appears to have improved compared to our position two races earlier," Allison remarked. He expressed optimism that it will continue to get better in the next few races.
At the start of the year, we were truly disappointing and far from meeting expectations, but now we're close to being competitive.
"A small additional effort will place us directly in the midst of the action."
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