Ralf Schumacher Points Out Red Bull’s Achilles’ Heel Post-Adrian Newey Era

Ralf Schumacher points out a vulnerability within Red Bull's technical squad following Adrian Newey's departure

According to Ralf Schumacher, a crucial member of Red Bull's technical crew is "still not ready for the challenge".

Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has expressed his opinion that Red Bull's technical lead, Pierre Wache, is "not yet capable" of addressing the team's current performance downturn.

Red Bull has relinquished their top position in the F1 constructors' standings and hasn't secured a grand prix victory since the event in Spain back in June.

Heading into the upcoming United States Grand Prix next weekend, McLaren boasts the quickest vehicle in Formula 1, despite Max Verstappen leading the drivers' rankings.

Red Bull's decline was simultaneous with the departure of Adrian Newey, a development that was made public during the Miami Grand Prix.

Christian Horner has emphasized that Newey's exit hasn't affected the team, stating that Red Bull has been planning for the departure of the F1 icon for some time.

Wache serves as the technical director for Red Bull, orchestrating the development of their Formula 1 contenders.

Schumacher is of the opinion that Wache doesn't have the ability to effect a turnaround for Red Bull in the manner that Newey did.

In a conversation with Sport.de, Schumacher mentioned, "I believe the team is facing difficulties due to some members departing or expressing a desire to depart, and it's quite challenging to find replacements for individuals of that caliber.

"I get the impression, though it might not be accurate, that [Wache] isn't quite ready for the responsibility yet."

"Undoubtedly, he's a sharp intellect, yet he lacks the charisma to pull it off in the manner Newey accomplished it."

"It appears to fall short in connecting the driver with the ideal vehicle."

"Nonetheless, I'm genuinely hoping that Red Bull manages to master it, though it's hard for me to envision that happening at the moment."

"I sense that challenging times lie ahead, particularly if Max Verstappen actually decides to exit. His solo contribution to the last race's outcome [in Singapore] clearly showcased his pivotal role."

Red Bull aims to bounce back in Austin, where they, along with numerous other teams, plan to unveil their last set of upgrades for the year.

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