F1 News Today:Red Bull's Horner issues statement on team Chall

F1 News Today:Red Bull’s Horner issues statement on team Challenges as FIA announced….read more

Christian Horner, Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, has made a formal statement addressing the recent difficulties the team has encountered, pointing to mounting pressure and technical inconsistencies that have affected both sides of the Red Bull garage. Despite maintaining their reputation as a leading team in Formula 1, Red Bull has recently faced setbacks that have raised concerns within the paddock and among fans.

Horner acknowledged that while the team continues to strive for excellence, several factors have disrupted their usual rhythm. These include car setup issues, internal operational challenges, and stronger competition from rival teams. Though the exact nature of the problems was not disclosed in detail, Horner emphasized that Red Bull is committed to resolving them swiftly and returning to top form. He reassured supporters that the team remains focused and united as they work through this difficult phase.

Adding to the weekend’s drama, the FIA has announced a late disqualification from the Bahrain Grand Prix. Nico Hulkenberg, driving for the Stake F1 Team (formerly Alfa Romeo, now operated under Sauber), was disqualified after his car failed a post-race technical inspection. According to the FIA’s findings, the skid block—or plank—on Hulkenberg’s car showed excessive wear, dropping below the legal minimum thickness mandated by F1 regulations.

Skid blocks are fitted underneath the cars to limit the degree of ground contact and maintain safety standards. The rules require a minimum thickness of 10mm, and the excessive wear found on Hulkenberg’s Sauber meant the car was in violation of these regulations. This kind of infraction typically results in disqualification, and the FIA acted accordingly.

The disqualification is a blow to both Hulkenberg and the Sauber team, who had initially finished the race and hoped to secure valuable early-season points. Hulkenberg had shown promising pace, but the post-race penalty now nullifies his result, emphasizing how critical compliance with technical specifications remains in modern F1.

The FIA confirmed that the inspection was part of routine post-race checks, and no protest was needed to trigger the evaluation. The decision serves as a reminder to all teams of the importance of adhering strictly to technical standards throughout race weekends.

With both Red Bull facing internal hurdles and disqualifications shaking up the final standings in Bahrain, the early rounds of the 2025 Formula 1 season are already filled with intrigue. As the championship moves forward, all eyes will be on how top teams respond to adversity and whether Red Bull can reestablish their dominance in the coming races.