SUMMARY
- Max Verstappen remains silent on Red Bull's rumored Suzuka upgrade, leaving speculation rampant among fans and pundits.
- Red Bull's potential switch to the Mercedes-inspired "zero-pod" design aims to reclaim dominance after a disappointing Australian Grand Prix.
The reigning champion, Max Verstappen, remained tight-lipped when pressed about Red Bull and their upcoming upgrades for the Japanese Grand Prix. Paddock rumors are rife with speculation of a dramatic shift towards the abandoned “zero-pod” design pioneered by Mercedes. But Verstappen, currently leading the drivers’ championship, offered no hints, leaving fans and pundits guessing.
This year, Red Bull surprised everyone by ditching their successful RB19 concept for a more Mercedes-like RB20. Now, rumors suggest they will take it a step further at Suzuka, fully embracing the zero-pod design that Mercedes ultimately discarded. After an unsuccessful run at the latest Australian Grand Prix, the Austrian outfit as well as the Dutchman are eager to bring back the Red Bull dominance.
Max Verstappen reacts to rumored upgrade by Red Bull
Verstappen is hungry for a win at Suzuka, a track he cherishes. Historically, however, Japan has been in the race following the end of Red Bull’s winning streak. This year is no exception, with Ferrari’s rise and issues with tire graining plaguing the RB20 in Australia. However, the Suzuka International Circuit consists of high-speed corners which is a perfect match for the RB20’s strengths.
🚨 REMINDER: Red Bull will be bringing upgrades to the Japanese GP
It has been previously reported by @Motorsport that these upgrades could be reminiscent of the infamous ‘zeropod’ concept.
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) April 2, 2024
A report from Autosport stated, “As F1 moves to Japan in early April, where temperatures will drop and cooling will be less marginal, the RB20 will be upgraded to a design reminiscent of the Mercedes size-zero sidepod.” However, speaking about the upgrades, Verstappen said, “Well, I mean the color will be the same, you will see.”
The 26-year-old revealed his expectations of a possible comeback in Japan as he said, “So far good but of course everyone has a bit of different characteristics in their cars as well, you know, so it’s not a given that we will be really, really competitive like last year. But I’m excited, it’s a track that I really enjoy.” While Ferrari plans minor upgrades for Suzuka, Red Bull is bringing a significant package to Japan.
Damon Hill’s Verstappen prediction amid Japan’s “shocking” scenario
Formula 1 legend Damon Hill anticipates a tense battle between Red Bull and Ferrari at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. While Ferrari emerged victorious in Australia, Verstappen’s dominant performance at Suzuka last year solidified him as the favorite for pole position. However, Suzuka’s demanding layout presents a significant challenge. The high-speed corners and severe tire degradation will test all teams’ capabilities.
🚨 Ferrari prepares improvements for Japan, but the ‘big update’ is expected for Imola. Red Bull is rumored to be bringing improvements to Japan.
[@KemalSengulll] #F1 pic.twitter.com/XDUDgeNc5G
— F1informativo (@informativoF1) March 26, 2024
Hill claimed, “Ferrari are quick in a straight line, and it is a lot of straight line, a lot of high-speed stuff in Suzuka, and what I really hope is that Ferrari are able to take the race to Red Bull during the actual race itself. Once that happens, and I think they’re getting close…I just want to see some racing, and I want to see a championship open up. But if they do, wow, that would be really shocking for the whole of Formula 1.”
Despite these factors, Hill expects Verstappen to reign supreme in qualifying, showcasing the raw power of the RB20. Nonetheless, Prancing Horse might cause a hindrance to their goals as revealed by Fred Vasseur. With McLaren emerging as a potential contender for the Red Bull-Ferrari duel, Japan could be the stage for an unexpected podium challenger.
The Japanese Grand Prix of 2024 will take place between 5 April to 7 April.