Breaking: Verstappen ‘not a problem’ for Hamilton after brutal Newey…read more
Verstappen ‘not a problem’ for Hamilton after brutal Newey…read more
In a season marked by significant upheavals within Red Bull Racing, former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has expressed confidence that Lewis Hamilton need not be overly concerned about Max Verstappen’s challenge for the championship. Montoya’s assessment comes in the wake of Adrian Newey’s departure from Red Bull and his subsequent critique of the team’s design trajectory.
Adrian Newey’s Departure and Critique
Adrian Newey, the esteemed Chief Technical Officer of Red Bull Racing, announced in May 2024 that he would be leaving the team in early 2025 to spearhead the development of Red Bull’s inaugural hypercar, the RB17. This transition marked the end of an era, as Newey had been instrumental in Red Bull’s dominance in previous seasons. Reflecting on the team’s recent struggles, Newey pointed to a decline in car performance, particularly with the RB20 model. He noted that the car became increasingly challenging to drive, a situation that Verstappen managed to cope with, but which significantly hampered Sergio Pérez’s performance. Newey attributed these issues to a “lack of experience” within the team following his reduced involvement, suggesting that his concerns were not adequately heeded by his colleagues.
Red Bull’s Performance Decline
The 2024 season saw Red Bull’s performance wane, with the team finishing third in the Constructors’ Championship, trailing behind McLaren and Ferrari. Despite Verstappen securing his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship, the RB20’s balance and development issues were evident. A floor upgrade intended to enhance performance inadvertently exacerbated the car’s balance problems, leading to inconsistent results. Verstappen himself described the car as an “undriveable monster,” highlighting the severity of the handling issues.
Montoya’s Perspective on Hamilton and Verstappen
In light of these developments, Juan Pablo Montoya has offered his perspective on the evolving dynamics between Hamilton and Verstappen. Montoya posits that if Ferrari provides Hamilton with a competitive car, the seven-time World Champion could return to his dominant form, reminiscent of his earlier successes. He asserts that under such circumstances, “nobody will beat” Hamilton, not even Verstappen. This statement underscores Montoya’s belief in Hamilton’s unparalleled skill and adaptability, especially when equipped with a formidable vehicle.
Ferrari’s Role and Hamilton’s Motivation
Hamilton’s recent move to Ferrari has been a focal point of discussion. Montoya emphasizes that Ferrari’s ability to deliver a fast and reliable car is crucial not only for championship contention but also for maintaining Hamilton’s motivation. He suggests that a competitive car would rejuvenate Hamilton’s drive, potentially leading to a resurgence of his “old” dominant self. Conversely, a subpar vehicle could dampen his spirits and impact performance.
Red Bull’s Internal Challenges
Red Bull’s internal dynamics have also been a subject of scrutiny. The departure of key figures, including Newey, has raised questions about the team’s future competitiveness. Reports indicate that Newey’s exit was influenced by a desire for new challenges and a perception of stagnation within Red Bull. His move to Aston Martin, driven by the enthusiasm of team owner Lawrence Stroll, signifies a shift in the competitive landscape of Formula 1.
Additionally, internal tensions have been highlighted by Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, who has openly criticized team principal Christian Horner. Jos expressed concerns about Red Bull’s trajectory, especially after Newey’s departure, and hinted that Max might consider leaving the team if performance issues persist. Such internal discord could further destabilize the team’s efforts to reclaim its former dominance.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, the Formula 1 landscape appears poised for a potential shift in power dynamics. Ferrari’s investment in providing Hamilton with a competitive car could reignite his championship aspirations, while Red Bull faces the challenge of overcoming internal upheavals and design setbacks. Montoya’s insights suggest that, given the current trajectory, Hamilton may have the upper hand over Verstappen, provided his machinery is up to par. The upcoming season promises to be a compelling chapter in the storied rivalry between these two exceptional drivers.
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