P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull chief engineer Paul Monaghan has addressed an area the team has struggled to compete against McLaren in so far this F1 season.
Red Bull’s chief engineer, Paul Monaghan, has earmarked the Austrian and British Grands Prix as crucial moments to assess the RB21’s long-run performance compared to its F1 rivals. Despite facing challenges, Max Verstappen has managed to mount a strong championship challenge against McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, even with supposedly inferior machinery. McLaren’s advantage lies in their ability to manage brakes and tire temperatures effectively, reducing tire degradation and gaining an edge in races that demand precise tire management. Monaghan acknowledged that tire management was a key factor but highlighted the RB21’s strong showings at circuits like Suzuka as evidence of progress in performance. The upcoming races at Silverstone and Spielberg will offer a clearer picture of Red Bull’s race pace and tire management capabilities, providing insights into any necessary adjustments for the team moving forward. Ultimately, the true test will come during the races when the team’s performance will be judged.
