Max Verstappen can only guarantee one thing regarding Red Bull’s upgrade package for this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.
Verstappen hopes to rebound in Suzuka after retiring in the Australian Grand Prix the previous time out.
In words reported by Planet F1, he provided a three-word reaction to those expecting advancements from the reigning champions this weekend.
Verstappen’s first mechanical DNF since Australia 2022 occurred last time out due to a brake failure.
He had begun on pole ahead of Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, but lost the lead to the Spaniard after his right-rear brake became jammed.
The situation escalated, and Red Bull had to employ fire extinguishers before Verstappen could crawl out of his car.
Sainz went on to lead Charles Leclerc to Ferrari’s first one-two finish in over two years.
Verstappen had won the first two races dominantly, but his lead at the top has shrunk to just four points.
When a reporter asked Verstappen about the planned changes to the RB20 for this weekend’s race, he kept quiet.
While the car’s ‘color’ will not change, the rest of the paddock will have to wait to see how far the development has progressed.
Verstappen stated: “Well, I mean the color will be the same. “You’ll see.”
This weekend’s race could provide an interesting peek into the pecking order at the head of the field.
Ferrari was always expected to be strong in Australia, even before Verstappen provided a significant boost.
The main question now is whether the Scuderia’s success is a one-off or if they can consistently challenge Red Bull.
squad principal Fred Vasseur encouraged the squad to contend for several triumphs this season, but Leclerc cautioned the Bulls that he would soon put them under additional ‘pressure’.
But Ferrari may not have anticipated to be on the first step of the podium so early in the season.
Vasseur claims that the SF24 is more easier to drive than its predecessor, much to the relief of Sainz and Leclerc.
Verstappen and Red Bull, on the other hand, are optimistic about the fourth round.
The Dutchman informed Helmut Marko that he might have maintained pace with Sainz at Albert Park before his problems worsened.
There have also been reports that Red Bull may bring a big improvement to Imola in mid-May.
