Verstappen Signals Change After Red Bull’s Lacklustre Starts in Malaysia and Singapore
The Dutch champion warned Red Bull that a shift in approach may be needed after two disappointing race starts, with the team eyeing a stronger finish for the remainder of the season.
Max Verstappen, the reigning World Champion, hinted that Red Bull Racing may need to rethink its approach after two underwhelming race starts in the recent Asian swing. Speaking to the media in Singapore, the Dutch driver said the team’s poor launches in both the Malaysian Grand Prix and the Singapore night race were “not up to our standards” and that a change could be on the horizon.
Verstappen’s comments came after Red Bull qualified 4th in Malaysia and 5th in Singapore, both times behind the Mercedes‑Ferrari duopoly that has dominated the early part of the 2024 season. While the team managed to recover to finish 3rd in Malaysia and 2nd in Singapore, the champion stressed that a strong start is essential for a championship‑winning campaign. “We have to look at the whole package – the car, the start, the strategy – and make sure we’re not giving away positions before the first corner,” he told reporters, according to Motorsport.com.
The remarks have sparked speculation about possible technical upgrades or a shift in Red Bull’s launch procedures. Engineers have already hinted at a new clutch map and revised tyre‑temperature management for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, where the team hopes to return to pole‑position form. Verstappen’s suggestion of a “change” could also refer to strategic tweaks, such as a more aggressive pit‑stop window or a different tyre‑choice philosophy, especially as the season moves into the high‑downforce circuits of Europe.
For Indian fans, the next race – the Japanese Grand Prix – will be broadcast live on FanCode with commentary in English and Hindi. The race starts at 04:00 IST on 7 October, giving viewers a chance to see whether Red Bull can translate their post‑Singapore optimism into a stronger start. The team’s performance in Japan will be crucial, as it will set the tone for the remaining European leg, including the iconic British and Hungarian Grands Prix.
Verstappen’s candid assessment underscores the pressure on Red Bull to maintain its dominance while rivals close the gap. With the championship still wide open, any technical or strategic adjustment could reshape the battle for the title as the season heads into its decisive phase.
Source: Motorsport.com