P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has branded allegations that Red Bull’s plight is down to an illegal part being banned on its F1 car mid-season as “bizarre”.
Max Verstappen started the season strong with four wins in the first five races, but Red Bull’s development missteps have led to a winless streak for him. The FIA banned asymmetric braking, sparking rumors about Red Bull’s tactics, which the team and Verstappen have denied. Red Bull’s struggles have been linked to personnel departures and a reportedly “toxic” environment at the team. Despite a 52-point lead over Lando Norris in the Drivers’ Championship, Red Bull is 41 points behind McLaren in the Constructors’ Championship. Verstappen expects a less intense battle with Norris compared to his 2021 duel with Lewis Hamilton due to multiple competitive teams at the front.
